SIMPLE, STIMULATING STUDIES IN Divided Kingdom History

a Beersheba SIMPLE, STIMULATING STUDIES

IN

Divided Kingdom History

BY DONALD G. HUNT

--SEE PAGES 94-104 FOR ASSIGNMENTS--

Voice of Evangelism Box 43 1 Ottumwa, Iowa 52501 U.S.A. Table of Contents

PART ONE ...... 's Glorious Kingdom: His Beginning , , ...... _.. Solomon's Glorious Kingdom: His Many Enteipr Solomon's Glorious Kingdom: Testimonies to It ...... ,, , *. , , ..-. Solomon's Glorious Kingdom to be Divided ...... The Once-Glorious Kingdom is Divided Tabular View of the Divided Kingdom ...... ,_ ...... 10 PART TWO ...... 's Notorious Departures ...... A Young Prophet Appears on the Scene ...... The Young Prophet Me The Arrogant Jeroboa ...... 16 God Delivers Bad News to Jeroboam ...... 17 's First Three Years are Prosperous ...... Rehoboam Foolishly Judah's Wealth is ......

...... The Wicked Baasha's House Will be Wiped out Also ...... 22 Touches off a Turbulent Time in Israel ...... Oinri Leaves His Mark

...... 26 Elijah Prays for and Proclaims a Drought ...... 29

...... 33

...... 36

...... 37

...... 39 Elisha Sees Elijah Translated ...... 41 ...... 42 God Gives Victory through Elisha ...... 42

A Hard-Times Miracle ...... 46 Elisha Multiplies Loaves ...

Elisha Foils the Syrian King's Plans ...... 49

The Syrian King Consults Elisha ...... 52 Jehoram Becomes Co-Regent with Jehoshnphat ...... 53

...... ~~ ...... ~ ... .. The Good King Jelioshapliat Dies ...... 53 Judali Declines under Jeliorani ...... 54 Another -Related King in tlie South ...... 54 is Anointed to Destroy Aliab's House and Baalim ...... 55 Jehu Begins by Killing Israel's Jehorani ...... 55 Niaziah is Sought Out and Killed Also ...... 56 PART TI3R.W ...... 57 Jezebel's Ignominious Death ...... 58 All of Aliab's Sons are Killed ...... 58 Aliab's Descendants in Judali are also Killed ...... 59 Jehu also Wipes out Baal-Worshipers ...... 59 Surprise: Jehu Contiiiues Jeroboani's Calf-Worship ...... GO Usurps the Throne of Judah ...... GO A Boy-King for Judah ...... 6 1 The Continuing Power of Jehoiada ...... 62 Joash Repairs the Temple ...... 62 Jehu's Last Years are Troublous ...... 63 Syria Gives Jelioahaz Trouble ...... 63 Apostasy Sets in after Jelioiada's ...... 64 Another Joash Becomes King in the North ...... 64 Reverses Come on Judah's Joash to His End ...... 64 Judah's New King Executes His Father's Assassins ...... 65 Israel's King Joash Visits the Ailing Elisha ...... 66 A Most Unusual Miracle ...... 66 Israel Recovers Its Cities beyond the Jordan ...... ; ...... 66 Aniaziah has a Great Victoiy over Edoni ...... 67 Amaziah Picks a Fight with Israel ...... 67 A Second Jeroboam Becomes King in the North ...... 68 Jeroboam again Regains Cities beyond Jordan ...... 68 Amaziah Becomes Judah's Second Assassinated Ki ...... 68 A Powerful King Takes over in the South ...... 69 's Reign is Prosperous for Judah ...... 69 Israel's Last Poweiful King Dies ...... 69 Time Runs out on the Jehu Dynasty ...... 70 Another Assassination within a Month Rocks Israel ...... 70 Uzziah's Success Goes to His Head ...... 70 Assyrian Invasion Begins Israel's Downfall ...... 71 Death Ends 's Ten-Year Rule ...... 71 Pekahiali is Israel's New Ruler ...... 7.1 Another Assassination in the North ...... 71 Judah's Second Longest Reign Ends ...... 72 The Godly Jotliam Prospers in the South ...... 72 Reverses in Jothani's Last Years ...... 72 A Wicked King Takes over in Judah ...... 72 Assyria Again Invades Israel ...... 73 A Series of Militaiy Struggles Involving Judah ...... 73 The Noith's Last King Takes Over ...... 74 I-Iezekiah Becomes King in Judali ...... 74 Pays Tribute to Assyria ...... 74 Revival under Judah's New King ...... 74 The Great Passover under I-Iezekiah ...... 75 Further Revival under ...... 75 God Blesses Hezekiali and Judah ...... 76 The Northern Kingdom is Toppled by Assyria ...... 76 A New Nation Replaces Israel in Its Land ...... 77 The ConglomerateReligion of the New Nation ...... 77

PARTFOUR ...... 78 Sennacherib Attacks Judah's Fortified Cities ...... 79 Hezekiah Becomes Deathly I11 ...... 79 Hezekiah Receives Visitors from Babylon ...... 79 Jerusalem Prepares to Withstand Assyria ...... 80 Hezekiah Offers Assyria a Pay-Off ...... 80 Sennacherib Wants a Full Shender ...... 81 The Prophet's Comforting Message ...... 81 Another Threatening Message to Jerusalem ...... Hezekiah's Fifteen Years of Prosperity ...... 82 The Exceeding Wickedness of Manasseh ...... 82 A Chastened Manasseh Repents ...... 83 Manasseh's Prosperous Years in Jerusalem ...... 83 Summarizing Words about Manasseh ...... 84 The New King Reverts to Idolatry ...... 84 Amon is Assassinated by His Servants ...... 84 A Boy-King for Judah ...... 84 Reacts against Idolatry in His Eighth Year ...... Josiah Orders the Temple Repaired ...... 85 The Book of the Law is Found ...... Josiah Observes a Great Passover ...... Josiah Meets an Untimely End ...... 86 Jehoahaz is King for Only Three Months ...... 87 's Wicked Reign ...... 87 Another Deportation to Babylon ...... Jeremiah Sends a Letter to the Captives ...... 88 Becomes Judah's Last King ...... 89 Jeremiah and His Wooden Yoke ...... 89 Nebuchadnezzar Lays Siege to Jerusalem ...... 89 Another Message for Zedekiah ...... 90 Egypt Sends Help ...... 90 Jeremiah Rebukes the People's Action ...... 90 Jeremiah is Arrested and Imprisoned ...... 91 Jerusalem Falls to the Babylonians ...... 91

FINAL ASSIGNMENTS ...... 93 ASSIGNMENT I ...... 94 THE ...... 94 THE KINGS OF ISRAEL ...... 94 ASSIGNMENT11 ...... 96 INFORMATION ABOUT THE KINGS OF ISRAEL ...... 96 QUIZ OVER "INFORMATION ABOUT THE KINGS OF ISRAEL" ...... 99 INFORMATION ABOUT THE KINGS OF JUDAH ...... 99 QUIZ OVER "INFORMATIONABOUT THE KINGS OF JUDAH" ...... 104 Index ...... 105

BLBLIOGRAPHY

Commentary on I & I1 Kings by James Smith Commentary on I & I1 Chronicles by Robert Black Coimentary on the WHOLE BIBLE by Jamison. Faucett. & Brown Scott's BIBLE Commentary BIBLE HISTORY: Old Testament by Alfred Edersheim Zondervan's Pictorial BIBLE Dictionary Vaious Old Testament Translations The hearty reception and the wide use of the author's God, and some of the inore significaiit events of their respective previous study books and booklets, beginning with liis "Simple, reigns. Stiniulatiiig Studies in Christian Stewardship" written when lie For us who live today and who arc not Jewish, there are was 19 and followed by a lengiliy list of other productions, have several things lhat interest us about this history. First of all, it encouraged him to continue to his present age. At the time of is an appreciated conlumancc coverage of God's Old Testament this first printing lie is 72, so liis writing of study works bas peaplc withoiit which we would have a great inforiliation-void spanned a €ull half-century and then some! following the death of King Soloinon. This inaterial of many This book is planned for a double use: for an individual's cliapters and many eveiits contains inany valuable lessons for us personal use and €or class use, Where a class uses it, its and yields inany true-to-life illustrations €or teaching Uiese usefuliiess is enhanced, But its use is also invaluable to tlie lessons. These lessons should not be overlooked nor forgotten. preacher, the teacher, or the individual Christian who wants to They, like ollier Old Testanienl narratives, have been written for increase hisher knowledge of God's wonderful Word. our adnltlonition (I Cor, 10:I 1). You will notice that each event has its special assignments, Though Divided Kingdoni History is history, this book which are followed by tlie author's interesting and helpful takes you back as though you were reliving this history by coinments, which in turn lead to the questions to test what has preseiituig it in tlie present tense, making it flow, making it more been learned about the event.. interesting, and at times niaking it hard to lay tlie book down. In approacl~igthese studies let us realize they are found in There are thee ways this extended histoiy could be the Old Testament, the sacred writings of Israel but which are preseiited: (1) The Bible ai~angenientis to announce a new king, also sacred to us who live today. Since there are several tell what year of the king's reign in the other kingdom lie began, swnmaries of such listory found botli in the Old Testament and and then follow his reign until he dies, Then if the other king is in the New Testament, we can see that tlie Jews loved their slill reigniiig, the Biblical account tnkcs up the reign oithe new background listory. Icings were very careful to keep records o€ king and covers it until its end. And as long as the king in tlie the happenings oftheir reigns, and these are referred to in such ollier kingdom is reigning, the account will bring on new kings passages as I Kings 14:19 ("The rest of the acts of Jeroboam, and follow their reigns to heir ends, Then when finally the other how he warred, and how he reigned, behold, they are written in king is dead, then the account will switch over and begin the book ofthe chronicles of the kings of Israel"), I Kings 14:29 following the dead king's successor(s) in the other kingdom. If ("Now the rest of the acts of Rehoboam, and all that he did, are you want to make a particular study of this arrangement, they not written in tlie book of the chronicles of the kings of carefully study the entire chapter of I Kings 15. (2) Another Judah?"), etc. Since both Israel and Judah had their national arrangenient for studying the history is to study Judah's history lives disrupted by the Assyrian destruction of Israel and by the king by king as a separate study and then do the same for Babyloiiian captivity of Judah, foreign invasions that not only Israel's history. (3) But the alsangenieiit followed in this book destroyed their capital cities but removed the citizenty to their is tlie chronological arrangeinelit; that is, to list all the events in conquerors' lands, these national "chronicles" of both Israel and botli kingdoms' histories and study tlieni in tlie order of their Judah have long ago perished, This fact made God's briefer occurrciice. This demands more inteiisivc study, but it is a record of their history greatly appreciated by the Jews of later satisfying arrangeiiiciit-especially to us who use the English times. No doubt God's account found in the Bible was shorter language. than the kings' accounts. An extreme example would be King May you who purchase and make use of this book be Jeroboam 11's fortyone year reign being covered in only seven blessed wiUi the divine knowledge that has blessed your author verses (IT Kings 14:23-29). God's account of the various kings' in its study, compilation, and writing. reigns told oftheir ancestries, ages when they began to rule, the lengths of their reigns, whether they were good or bad before

Father Reign Prophecy Reference

Saul Kish 40 years Deut. 17:14-20 Jesse 40 years

Solomon David 40 years PART ONE The Kingdom that will be DIVIDED

The great kingdom Solomon inherited from his father David and which enjoyed many years of unprecedented prosperity under his own rule will be broken in two after his death because of his own mistakes and sins. DIVIDEDKINGDOM HiSTORY 7

1, Solomon's Glorious Hhgdom: His where tlie taberiiacle is now located (I1 his son and successor will build it (I1 Beginning Cbron, 1 : 1-3). In righthl veneration of Sam. 7: 12,13). This prohibition did not God who has enabled lkn to become king keep David from collecting materials for ASSIGNMENTS he here makes R great sacrifice of one it throughout the rest of his reign (I thousand burnt offerings (I1 Cl~on. Chron, 22: 1-5,14-16). The building of 1, Study the following material for a quiz. 1:5,6). This night God makes His this great temple becomes one of the 2, Memorize I Kings 3:9 and I Kings 4:30. very fist appearance to hi(He will make two special highlights of Solomon's illustrious COMMENTS more during his reign) in which He offers career. Seven years are required for him a blessing of Solomon's own constructing this beautiful building (I veryoiie lias heard of Solomon, clioositig (I1 Chron. 1:7),The greatness of Kings 6:37,38). Several chapters are reputedly the world's wisest man, tlie kingdom lie bas received is recognized devoted to its coiistixiction and dedication Ebut few luiow about or realize jus1 in his prayer for wisdom with which to (I Kings 5:1--9:15), It replaces the how much tlie Bible says about and rule it (I1 Chron, 1:s-10). He will later tabernacle constructed by Moses and elaborates on his earthly greatness, write that wisdom is what enables a king Israel at Mt Sinai as tlie place where God He was tlie third king of Israel, , to nile (Prov. 8:16), and it surely proves records His name, where tlie priesthood the farnier-big, had been the first. David, true in Solomon's case, €or from tlie tiine functions, and to which tlie tribes come the shepherd-musician-warrior king of God grants biin this special measure of during their aiuiual feasts of Passover, whose line the Messiah would come, has wisdom his people respect him for his Pentecost, and Tabeiiiacles. been the second. Solomon, though not the unprecedented wisdom (I Kings 3: 16-28), Solonion also builds a house for oldest of David's sons, was nevertheless and his name spreads abroad throughout himself, also tlie great House of the his choice to succeed him and thereby tlie world of his day (I Kings 4:29-34). Forest of Lebanon, and various other become Israel's third king (I Kings 1:28- prominent buildings (I Kings 7: 1- 12). 30) Like Saul and David before him, QUESTIONS After this he builds and fortifies Solomon will rule forty years. Let us go 1. Solomon is espeolally known for his great inilitary cities throughout his kingdom (I1 back to those days and relive what Chron. 8:l-6; I Kings 9:15-19; I1 Clron. 2 Name Israel's first three kings happened. 3 Why does David not go to Solomon's ooronation? 9:25). The aged David is too feeble to attend 4 What instwtions does David give for the coronation? Next lie adds another dimension to his Solomon's coronation, but he gives the 6 Why is Solomon's reign free from war? operation when he makes sea-going ships 6 What is the extent of his territory? instructions for it, and the instructions are 7 Why does Solomon call a great mass-meeting? at Ezioii-geber, a port on one of the upper carried out; namely, Solomon rides 8 How great a saorrfioe dQeS he offer here? reaches of the Red Sea-look it up on a What generous offer does God make him? map (I Kings 9:26). This fleet of ships David's mule to Gihon Spring 10 What does Solomon choose? (Jerusalem's water supply in the Kidroii 11 Quote from memory I Kings 39 and I Kings 430 goes to Ophir for gold, precious stones, Valley), where the priest Zadok anoints and algum trees which he plants in him king after which trumpets sound and Jerusalem and from which he inakes those attending the coronation shout, 8, Solomon's Glorious Kingdom: His musical instruments (I Kings 10:12; I1 "God save king Solomon" (I Kings 1:32- Many Enterpriser Clron. 9: 10,ll). And every third year his ships also bring gold, silver, ivory, apes, 39). ASSIGNMENTS It is a great kingdom young King and peacocks from Tarshish (I1 Chron. Solomon inlierits from his famous father. 1. Study the following material for a quiz. 9:21). Since lis ineii are "dry-landers", he God lias helped David subdue his 2. Memorize II Chron. 1:15 and I Kings hires some of King Hiram's skilled enemies at home and Israel's enemy- 4:32. seanen from Plioenicia to help on the sea nations abroad. Tlis will leave Solomon's trips (I Kings 9:27), reign free from troubles to become a COMMENTS Since Solomon reigns over all tlie remarkable builder. His territory extends territory from Egypt to the E~iplrates,he from "the river" (thought to be the lancing at I1 Chron. 23:2--27:34 collects iinmense tribute year by year (I1 Euphrates) to Egypt (I Kings 4:21). Since one can see David had his Cl~on.9:13,24,28; I Kings 10:14,15). we read of no wars of expansion under Ggovernment well organized, and Solomon lias quarries and smelters for Solomon, we conclude all liis territory S olonioii wisely continues the same all tlie many utensils and fixtures he and subjects are inherited from his orderly procedures (I1 Chron. 8:14; I makes out of metal. Archaeologist Nelson father's successful reign. Kings 4:6,7,22,23,27,28), Glueck and liis workers have found One of Solomon's first recorded acts is David had wanled lo build God a evidences of such in the Jordan Valley to call a great mass-meeting at Gibeon, temple in Jerusalem but had been (where I Kings 7:46 says Solomon did which is a few miles north of Jerusalem forbidden to do so (I1 Sam. 7: I-7), bul he castings), also south ofthe Dead Sea, and 8 DIVIDEDKINGDOM HISTORY at Ezion-geber on the Red Sea where he report which I heard in mine own land of had his ships. ASSIGNMENTS thine acts, and of thy wisdom: howbeit I Is it any wonder that Jesus' Sermon of believed not their words, until I came, and the Mount refers to Solomon's great glory 1. Study the following material for a quiz. mine eyes had seen it: and, behold, the (Matt. 6:28,29) when we consider the 2. Memorize I Kings 4:25 and Eccl. 2:9. one half of the greatness of thy wisdom above material and when I Kings 10:23 COMMENTS was not told me: for thou exceedest the says he exceeded all the kings of the earth fame that I heard. Happy are thy men, and both in wisdom and riches? His lavish ecause God has so blessed happy are these thy servants, which stand throne is unrivaled. It is made of ivory, is Solomon over such a long reign, it continually before thee, and hear thy overlaid with the best gold, and has six Bis no wonder we read that "Judah wisdom. Blessed be the LORD thy God, wide steps approaching it with two lions and Israel were many, as the sand which which delighted in thee to set thee on his standing on each step (I Kings 10:18-20). is by the sea in multitude, eating and throne, to be king for the LORD thy God: All his drinking vessels are of the best drinking and making merry'' (I Kings because thy God loved Israel, to establish gold--none is of silver (I Kings 10:21). 4:20), that "he had peace on all sides them for ever, therefore made he thee The weight of gold that comes to him round about him" (I Kings 4:24), and that king over them, to do judgment and each year is a whopping six hundred "Judah and Israel dwelt safely, every man justice." sixty-six talents (I Kings 10:14). Thus he under his vine and under his fig tree from Many centuries later, even after the is able to make silver and gold as Dan even to Beersheba, all the days of Babylonian Captivity, they will still be plenteous in Jerusalem as stones (I1 Solomon" (I Kings 4:25). remembering Solomon's greatness (Ezra Chron. 1:15). Eccl. 2:4-9 records, "I made me great 5:11; 4:20). Solomon wrote three Old Testament works; I builded me houses; I planted me books: Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and Song vineyards: I made me gardens and QUESTIONS of Solomon. He is known for speaking orchards, and I planted trees in them of all 1. What did Solomon say in Eccl about his busy proverbs: three thousand of them (I Kings kind of fruits: I made me pools of water, enterprising career? 2 What did the queen of Sheba see that caused her 4:32). Thus it is not surprising that God to water therewith the wood that bringeth to be so impressed with Solomon's directs him to preserve some of the best forth trees: I got me servants and greatness? of them in his book of Proverbs. He is maidens, and had servants born in my 4. Solomon's Glorious Kingdom to be also a student of life: its values, its house; also I had great possessions of Divided purpose, etc. His inspired conclusions are great and small cattle above all that were found in his book of Ecclesiastes. He is in Jerusalem before me: I gathered me ASSIGNMENTS also very interested in music: he has one also silver and gold, and the peculiar thousand and five songs (I Kings 4:32). treasure of kings and of the provinces: I 1. Study the following material for a quiz. Song of Solomon is but one of them, gat me men singers and women singers, 2. Memorize I Kings 11:4 and I Kings being to us more like an operetta than just and the delights of the sons of men, as 11:li. a song. musical instruments, and that of all sorts. So I was great, and increased more than COMMENTS QUESTIONS all that were before me in Jerusalem." t is always sad to see something 1. How long is Solmon's temple under construction? The queen of Sheba made a notable 2. What does it replace? visit to hear the wisdom of Solomon and decline that has taken years to build 3. Name some of the other buildings Solomon builds. up, that has been strong and great, 4. Where does he construct his ships? to behold the glory of his kingdom, a visit I 5. What do his ships bring from Ophir? famous enough that Jesus made mention and that has been a blessing. Kingdoms 6. What do they bring from Tarshish? of it many centuries later (Matt. 12:42). I1 are often like roses: their "budding" years 7. Who are hired to help on these sea trips? can show much promise; their 8. Name two places where Archaeologists have found Chron. 9:3-8 gives us an account of her smelters of Solomon. impressions from that visit: "When the "flowering" years can be great and 9. In what sermon does Jesus mention Solomon's glory? queen of Sheba had seen the wisdom of glorious; and then come "decay" and 10. In what two ways does Solomon excei all other disintegration. contemporary kings? Solomon, and the house that he had built, II. Describe Solomon's throne. and the meat of his table, and the sitting We have been studying about 12. Of what material are his drinking vessels made? Solomon in all his glory, a glory that has 13. What three Old Testament books does Solomon of his servants, and the attendance of his write? ministers, and their apparel; his been his because of his successful father 14. Quote from memory II Chron. 1:15 and I Kings and because of God's great blessing of 4:s. cupbearers also, and their apparel; and his ascent by which he went up into the house wisdom. To such a monarch nothing is 3. Solomon's Glorious Kingdomr of the LORD; there was no more spirit in greater than the prosperous, Testimonies to It her. And she said to the king, It was a true uninterrupted reign of his descendants on DIVIDEDKINGDOM HISTORY

14s throne from generation to generation. outlandish women cause to sill" (Neh, 1. What three things did Solomon multiply contrary to God's Instructions for kings In Deut.? But such is not to be with Solomon's 13 !26), 2. What law of God did Solomon violate in his throne, for within a few weeks after his What had God said He would do if marriages? such happens? 1% told David would 8. What does God tell Solomon He Is going to do a6 death most of his kiiigdonl will be He a punishment? wrested I'roin his family and given to punish his son if lie sinned while still 4. Tell about Ahijah's prophec;y to Jeroboam. mother while his son will have but a reinembering His covenant with David (I1 6. Where does Jeroboam find a refuge from Solomon? 8. Quote I Kings 11:4 and 1 Kings 11:Il. fragment of Solomon's kingdom lo nile, Sam. 7:12-16) God tells Solomoii He We shall see this will be a punishment on will cause Israel to be deported out of tlie 5, The Once-Glorious Kingdom is Solomoii for his sins, What are his sins? land, his temple to be destroyed, and Dluided He has violated God's instructions Israel's iianie to become a byword among micendngkings in Deut, 17:14-17. God the nations (I Kings 9:6-9). ASSIGNMENTS said through Moses that when Israel had God's final message to Solomon is a king, he sliould not multiply three one of great displeasure and bad news for 1. Read I Kings 12:l-24 and II Chron, 1O:l things: horses, wives, and riches (silver the future of the kingdom. Nearly all of - -11 :4, aid gold), To inultiply horses would be to Soloinon's glorious ldngdoni will be taken 2. Study the following material for a quiz. from his family and given to his servant. 3, Memorize I Kings 12:4 and I Kings trust in his own military build-up rather 12:13. than God (Psa. 20:7,8; Isa. 3 1:1). There Out of God's respect for Solomon's father would arise problems and dangers out of David, though, the actual division of tlie COMMENTS multiplying wives even though God kingdom will await Solomon's death (I permitted polygamy under tlie Old Kings 11:9-13). But even before ile it is God's will to divide Testament (Abraham, , David, etc,). Solomon's death God stirs up an old Solomon's kingdom, there is Some riches were a sign of God's blessing enemy of David, Hadad tlie Edoinite (I Walso a great unrest and (I Kings 3:13; Prov. 3:13,16), but to go Kings 11:14-22),and Rezon the Syrian (I dissatisfaction among the people overboard in the accumulation of great Kings 11:23-25). themselves because of the oppressive wealth and the luxurious living normally Solomon's chief adversary, though, taxes Solomon's extensive building accompanying such wealth would make will be his own servant Jeroboam, an program has placed on them. Years such to be unwise and dangerous to industrious younger man, son of a widow, before when Israel was clamoring for a godliness Solomon is tlie chief violator to whom Solomon has committed great king, God €oretold that a king would take of the Deut. 17 instructions: lie multiplies responsibility (I Kings 11:26-28). One their sons for his military, their daughters horses (I Kings 10:27,28,29), wives (I day after Jeroboam has gone out of for his cooks, their fields and vineyards Kings 11: 1-3), and silver and gold (I1 Jerusalem, he is met by tlie prophet and oliveyards to support his program, a Chron. 1115). Ahijah, who catches him by his new tenth of their seed for his fields, their Solomon has also violated God's garment, cuts it into twelve pieces, and servants and maids as well as their asses orders to Israel in Deut. 7:3-5, God said gives him ten pieces, telling him God will to work in his fields, and a tenth of their not to make marriages with foreigners, give him ten tribes to rule (I Kings 11:29- sheep (I Sam. 8:lO-17). The prophet but Solomon has (I Kings 1 1:42). God 33,37). At tlie same time God urges Samuel said the time would come when €orehew such marriages would lead an Jeroboam to be a good king like David, they would groan and sigh under their Israelite into worshiping their god or making special promises to him if he will king's program and demands (I Sam. gods, and that is exactly what has (I Kings 11:38). Solomon's learning of 10:18). All this comes home to them happened to Soloinon (I Kings 11:3-8). this makes it necessary for Jeroboam to under Solomon. Who would have thought a king so flee from Israel, and he settles in Egypt As soon as Solomon dies, Jeroboam is blessed, a person so wise, one to whom with Shishak, where he remains until immediately summoned from Egypt (I1 God has personally spoken, and a person Solomon dies (I Kings 11:40). Chron. 10:2), and he returns to become who has written three Bible books would The division of tlie kingdom will be the spokesman for the opposition party. ever become idolatrous? This surprise tlie beginning of the kingdom's wealums The time comes for the coronation of will be recalled centuries later by and many calamities in harmony with Solomon's son Rehoboam. He senses the Nehemiah when lie will say, "Did not what Jesus later observed: "Every rebellion that is in the air, for Israel has Solomon king of Israel sin by these kingdom divided against itself is brought gathered at the ancient Shechein, a well things? Yet among many nations was to desolation" (Matt. 12:25); "That known assembly place in the center of the there no king like him, who was beloved kingdom cannot stand" (Mark 3:24). land since the days of Joshua (Josh. 24: 1) o€lis God, and God made him king over instead of at Jerusalem for what turns out all Israel: nevertheless EVEN HIM did QUESTIONS to be more of a confrontation than a coronation Led by Jeroboam, Israel 10 DIVIDEDKINGDOM HISTORY

demands Rehoboam to lighten the heavy ffom his two tribes (Judah and Benjamin) During its history it has several load they have borne under Solomon as a in an attempt to bring the entire kingdom capitals. From I Kings 12:25 it appears condition of their accepting him as their back under his rule. At this point God that Jeroboam selects as Israel's king. He asks for three days to consider intervenes by the prophet Shemaiah, who first capital but later moves the capital to the matter and make his decision. During personally informs Rehoboam that he is Penuel (the ancient Peniel east of the the three days he counsels with two not to go to war against his brethren Jordan where Jacob wrestled with the different groups, each group giving him because the division of the kingdom is of angel--Gen. 32:24,30,3 I), or he may have different advice. The older men advise God. When Rehoboam regards the both of them as capital cities, Shechem him to listen to the people and lighten the message of the prophet and cancels his for west of the Jordan and Penuel for east load, but his younger advisers tell him to plans to subdue the revolting tribes, the of it. Later in his twenty-two year reign he announce the rigid policies by which he division of Solomon's once-glorious moves his capital to (I Kings will rule them. He agrees with the kingdom is absolute and final! 14:12,17) seven miles northeast of flattering advice of his age-group and Shechem, a place known for its beauty (S. answers Jeroboam and the people roughly QUESTIONS of Sol. 6:4). The first five kings of the and rashly, expecting them to submit to 1. How were the people feeling by the end of North (Jeroboam, Nadab, Baasha, Elah, his bold declaration. His attitude becomes Solomon's reign? and Zimri) rule from Tirzah. The sixth 2. Who becomes spokesman for the opposition to the occasion whereby God's decree Rehoboam? king () builds a new capital city against the kingdom will be carried out 3. On what condition will the people submit to (Samaria--I Kings 16:23,24), which is after Solomon's death. Immediately the Rehoboam as the next king? about ten miles west of Tirzah. All 4. What advice do the older men give him? people revolt and depart from Shechem to 5. What advice do the younger men give him? succeeding kings of the North maintain their homes without taking any further 6. Which two tribes stay with Rehoboam? this tremendous site as their capital. It is part in crowning or recognizing 7. From what two places does Jeroboam rule his territories on both sides of the Jordan? built on a hill completely surrounded by Rehoboam as their king. Only those of 6. Tell of Rehoboam's attempt to collect taxes from all valley so attackers have the disadvantage the Jerusalem area accept him as king. the tribes of having to fight uphill regardless of the 9. Tell of Rehoboam's organizing a large army to fight But Rehoboam does not give up against the revolting tribes. direction from which they attack. easily. He will proceed as if he were It is ruled by nineteen different kings indeed king over all the land by 6.tabular View of the Divided beginning with Jeroboam and ending with dispatching the head of his tribute- Kingdom Hoshea with reigns ranging from Zimri's gathering department (Adoram) to collect seven days to Jeroboam 11's forty-one taxes from all the tribes of Israel. But he years. The Bible's coverage of each king's finds the revolting tribes will not be ASSIGNMENTS reign specifically mentions he does evil in subdued by such pressure-methods. 1. Study the following material for a quiz. the sight of Jehovah, departing not from Instead of paying taxes they turn on 2. Memorize Amos 52. the sins of Jeroboam, the son of Nebat, Adoram and kill him with stones, and who made israel to sin (referring to his Rehoboam who has accompanied him on COMMENTS golden calves). Their names and lengths the mission hurries to get into his chariot of reign in order are: and back to Jerusalem before he receives efore beginning a study of the Jeroboam - 22 years the same fate. This confirms the fact that main events in the two kingdoms' Nadab - 2 years the bulk of the people will have no part of history, let us acquaint ourselves Baasha - 24 years Rehoboam's rulership. with a summary-a birds eye view-of If they will not have Rehoboam as both kingdoms. Elah - 2 years their king, whom will they have? They A.The Northern Kingdom. Zimri - 7 days turn to their spokesman Jeroboam. Since It is composed of ten tribes (I Kings Omri - 12 years the kingdom's capital has been Jerusalem, 1 1:3 1). Since they are geographically Ahab - 22 years and that is still in Rehoboam's mostly in the north, this part of the Ahaziah - 2 years possession, Jeroboam sets up his kingdom is commonly referred to as the government at Shechem (on the west side Northern Kingdom. Jehoram - 12 years of the Jordan where Rehoboam's It retains the covenant name "Israel'' (I Jehu - 28 years coronation took place) and at Penuel (on Kings 14:7) since most of the kingdom is Jehoahaz - 17 years the east side of the Jordan). still intact in it. Joash - 16 years The appointment of Jeroboam as the Its advantages: more tribes, more Jeroboam I1 - 41 years rival king stirs Rehoboam to organize an people, more area, and more fertile land. myof one hundred eighty thousand Zechariah - 6 months HISTORY -~ DIVIDEDKINGDOM 11 Shallwn - 1 month world (Heb, 7: 14). Jelioiachin's reign (I1 Kings 24: 10- 16) in Menahem - 10 years It retains the historic capital at 597 B,C. The third invasion, the invasion that destroys tlie temple and Jerusaleni 2 years Jerusalem (I Kings 14:21), - It is ruled by nineteen kings and one and that deports most of Judali to - 20 years usurper (Atlialiah) beginning with Babylon, comes in Zedeltiah's reign (I1 Hoshea - 9 years Rehoboain and ending with Zedekiah Kings 25:l-21) in 586 B.C. In Its two hundred twelve year history with reigns ranging from Jehoaliaz's and punisluneiit for its sins Judah's runs from the division of the kingdom Jehoiachin's three-month reigns lo Babylonian captivity lasts seventy years (933 B,C,) until it is destroyed in 721 Manasseli's fifty-five-year reign, Some (from 606 B,C,to 536 B,C,)after which B,C, during which time it is ruled by nine are evil, some are good, and some are it is returned to its land to repopulate and different dynasties or families of kings: partly good and partly bad, The worst is repossess their places, to rebuild (1) Jeroboam and his son; (2) Baasha and Manasseh before he is punished and Jerusalem, to rebuild the temple, to re- his son; (3) Zimri; (4) Omri and his repents, The best are Hezekiali and establish the priesthood and its religion, descendants; (5) Jehu and his Josiah. Thek names and lengths of reigns and to await the birth of tlie promised descendants; (6) Shallum; (7) Menahem in order are: Messiah who will come through them. and his son; (8) Pekah; and (9) Hoshea, Relioboam - 17 years Following is a chart-summary of the 11 falls to the Assyrians (capital at Abijah - 3 years two kingdoms: See Page I2 Nheveli) in three different invasions. The Asa - 41 years first invasion comes in Menahem's reign After the seventy years of captivity 25 years (I1 Kings 15:19,20) and is predicted by - end, Zerubabbel and the priest Joshua Amos's vision of grasshoppers (Amos Jelioram - 8 years will lead fifty thousand Jews back to the 7: 1-3). The second invasion comes during Ahaziah - 1 years land in 536 B. C., resulting in the temple Pekah's reign (I1 Kings 15:29) and is Athaliah - 6 years being rebuilt, Mosiac religion being reinstated, and the land beginning to be predicted by Amos's vision of fire (Amos Joash - 40 years 7:4-6). The third invasion, the one that resettled. In 457 B. C. the godly priest Amaziah 29 years destroyed the Northern Kingdom, comes - and scribe Ezra will return to Jerusalem during Hoshea's reign (I1 Kings 17:4-6) Uzziah - 52 years to conduct much needed reforms, and in and is predicted by Amos's vision of the Jotham - 16 years 444 B. C.Nehemiahwill return to rebuild plumbline (Amos 7:7-9). Amos predicts - 16 years Jerusalem's wall. that the Northern Kingdom when Hezekiah - 29 years destroyed will never be rebuilt (Amos 5:2 QUESTIONS Manasseh - 55 years and Amos 8:14). And after they are 1. What is the Northern Kingdom oalied? deported from their land by the Ainon - 2 years 2. What is the Southern Kingdom called? 3. How many tribes are in the Northern Kingdom? Assyrians, they are never permitted to Josiah - 3 1 years 4. How many tribes are in the Southern Kingdom? return to their homeland. In time they Jehoahaz - 3 months 6. What different cities are at one time or another become scattered, die off, and are oapilai cities in the North? Jehoialtim - 11 years 6. What is the oapital of the Southern Kingdom? absorbed into other nations so they are Jelioiachin 3 months 7. List three advantages held by the I\lorthern now often referred to as the "ten lost - Kingdom? Zedekiah - 11 years 8. List three advantages held by the Southern tribes of Israel". Kingdom? B.The Southern IGngdom Its three hundred forty-seven year 9. How many different rulers does the North have? It is composed of two tribes (I Kings history (135 longer than Israel's) runs 10. What makes ail of them bad rulers? 11. How many different rulers does the South have? 12:21); Since those tribes are from the division of the kingdom (933 12. Comment on their oharaoter. geographically in the south, this part of B.C,) until it is carried into Babylonian 13. How many different dynasties of ruiers does the Captivity in 586 B.C. Because Judali's North have? the lcingdom is commonly referred to as 14. How many dlferent dynasties does the South have? the Southern Kingdom. lings are all of David's line, there are not 16. How many years does the Northern Kingdom last? It is called "Judah" (I Kings 12:23) tlie number of assassinations and 16. What nation conquers it? 17. In what year7 since its largest element is the large tribe governmental shake-ups that plague 18. What do we call those tribes today? of Judah. Israel from time to time. 19. How many years does the Southern Kingdom have Its advantages: of kings, It falls to Babylon in three different before it goes into captivity? 20. What nation takes it captive? Jerusalem as its capital, the temple, the invasions. The first invasion comes in 21. When? priesthood, and the tribe that will be Jelioiakim's reign (I1 Chron. 36:5-7) in 22. For how many years? preserved to bring the Messiah into the 606 B.C. The second iiivasioii comes in 23. What do they do upon their return to their land? 12 DIVIDEDKINGDOM HISTORY

NORTHERN SOUTHERN KINGDOM KINGDOM 10: Reuben, Simeon, 2: Judahand Issachar, Zebulun, Benjamin Tribes Ephraim, Manasseh, Dan, Asher, Gad, Nat,ht ali Name Israel ~~ ~~~ Judah More tribes Davidic kings More people Jerusalem Advantages More area The temple More fertile land The priesthood The Messianic tribe (Judah) Capitals Shechem Jerusalem Penuel Tirzah Samaria 9 different 1 dynasty dynasties (David's)

19 kings 19 kings and 1 Kings all evil usurper

some evil, some good, some partly good and partly evil Duration 2 12 years 347 years (933-721 B.C.) (933-586 B.C.) Conquered by Assyria in 3 Babylon in 3 attacks: attacks: Under Menahem Under Jehoiakim Under Pekah Under Jehoiachin Under Hoshea Under Zedekiah ~ Later History None--Captives Returned to its become absorbed land after 70 in other nations years of Baby- so they are now lonian Captivity known as the "10 to rebuild and lost tribes of prepare for the Israel" coming of Christ PART TWO From the Division of the Kingdom to the Deaths of Both Kingdoms' Kings

From this point forward we will not be studying Solomon's glorious kingdom but the divided kingdom-- actually the two rival kingdoms now occupying the northern and southern areas of Solomon's kingdom. 14 DIVIDEDKINGDOM HISTORY

7. Jeroboam's Notorious Deperkrres his own doing. He decides to establish What a presumptuous innovator he two places of worship closer than has turned out to be! Golden calves to ASSIGNMENTS Jerusalem and to sell his people on the replace Jerusalem, calling these lifeless thought it is too much trouble to go to images the gods that had brought them 1. Read I Kings 12:26-33. Jerusalem. So at Dan (in the northern end out of Egypt, a new temple, priests who 2. Study the account until you can tell it. 3. Memorize these facts about the event: of his territory) and at (in the are not Scripturally qualified, and now a a. He sets up golden calves at Dan and southern end) he sets up golden calves as feast "which he devised of his own heart". Bethel. objects and places of worship. And his We can but marvel at his fearless, anti- b. He consecrates priests who are not people who want a lighter political load Jehovah procedures after he has been set Levites. are easily sold on a more convenient up as king by Him. Will he get away with c. He ordains a feast in the eighth religion. And every succeeding king on it? We shall see. month. his throne will continue these places of QUESTIONS calf-worship. So "this thing became a sin" 1. Recite the 3 memory-facts for lhis event. COMMENTS (see I Kings 13:33,34; 16:25,26; etc.). 2 Why would we expect Jeroboam to be more civil Thus the evil he introduces continues long than Rehoboam? hough Jeroboam is not of the royal 3. Why does he want to keep his people out of after his death to curse the very kingdom Jerusalem? line of kings (the house of David), he has started. 4. How does he sell his people on using his places of TGod gives this kobodyl' an But there are yet other Jeroboam- worship instead of going to Jerusalem? opportunity to become "somebody" and departures. One departure from God's to establish his house as the ruling line in 8, A Young Prophet Appears on way or one false doctrine frequently leads the Scene the North. to another, and that to another, etc., What kind of king will he be, this first demonstratingthe worst wrong is the first ASSIGNMENTS king of the newly-formed Northern wrong, for without the first there would Kingdom? Obviously his subjects are be no second, no third, etc. expecting him to be more civil about the 1. Read I Kings 13:l-10. What does he do next? He makes a 2. Study the event until you can tell it. tax-load and governmental policies than "house of high places" (probably a temple 3. Memorize these facts about the event: Rehoboam would be, for it has been on at Bethel) and "priests of the lowest of the a. A young prophet from Judah rebukes this platform the new kingdom has been people, which were not sons of Levi". For Jeroboam. established. We also expect Jeroboam to "lowest of the people" the American b. The withered hand of Jeroboam is be a godly king, for God has spoken to Standard reads, "From among all the healed. him through the prophet Ahijah, people," which corresponds with the c. The prophet refuses to accept the promising him the major part of statement they were not of the tribe of king's hospitality-offer. Solomon's kingdom (I Kings 1 1:29-3 1) Levi. In fact, according to I1 Chron. 1 1: 14 and other special promises if he will be a he actually rejects the Levites from being COMMENTS good king (I Kings 11:37,38). But these priests, resulting in their leaving their expectations of his goodness are not to be priestly cities in the North and going over en God is displeased, He realized as we shall see. to Rehoboam in the South. delivers His message of The most notorious of all his And his perverting his people's Wdisapproval by man. In the departures is his setting up golden calves religious life continues when he ordains a days of inspiration He dispatched inspired at Dan and Bethel. People who lack feast in the eighth month, a month which men. Today He depends on uninspired principle often do anything to establish a the Scripture specifically says "he devised men to deliver His oral rebukes as His point or to gain a personal objective. of his own heart". When people reject Word directs. Such is the case with Jeroboam. divine ways, they can turn only to human Our hero of this event is often called Uppermost in his selfish mind is to keep ways instead. In Matt. 21:25 Jesus "the young prophet from Judah" because his citizens from reuniting with their recognized John's baptism was either we do not know his name and because he brethren in Judah. He particularly fears from heaven or of men, and every was sent from Judah to Jeroboam in the their going to the annual feasts at religious doctrine as well as every Northern Kingdom. His case will combine Jerusalem--the Passover, Pentecost, and religious practice is either "of God" the boldness, the sincerity, and the Tabernacles (Deut. 16:16; Psa 122:2-4). (taught in the Bible) of "of men" (made trusting nature of youth that sometimes He fears the sentimentality of their former up by man). Jeroboam himself personally lay youth open to deception. You will like ties will cause them to reunite politically officiates at the altars of sacrifice and this young man, and you will cry at what under Rehoboam. His solution? Prayer? incense. happens to him. No. Trust in God? No. But something of DIVIDEDKINGDOM HISTORY 15

We can only admire his courage as he iihislry, holds no personal hatred €or tlie And why does he lie to the young prophet crosses the border between his nation and king who had said, "Lay hold on him," to begin with, and then why does God that of Israel where he is being sent with but prays €or tlie restoration of'his hand, deliver a revelation to tlie young prophet God's message to tlie sinning king, As lie and God answers, It is customary €or through him? arrives at. Bethel, lie sees the king himself people to do good to those who have done Bible students have Eound his case oficiatuig at his altar oEincense, He loses good to tliem, so the king (happy about puzzling. Consequently not all have come no hiebut breaks into the very solemnity getting back tlie use o€ his hand and to the same conclusion concerning him, ofthe ceremony as he addresses tlie altar thaiMu1 for tlie prophet who has been Our own studied view is he is a true in these stunning words: "0 altar, altar, instrumental in its restoration) now prophet who respects the young man who thus saith the Lord; Behold a child shall invites the prophet to his place where lie has so courageously delivered God's be born unto tlie house of David, Josiah plans to give him a reward, But obedience message to the sinning king that he by name; and upon thee shall he o€€er tlie to God who has told tlie prophet not to wishes to know him personally and to priests of the high places that burn tarry in the land even long enough to eat have him in his own home. When one is incense upon thee, and men's bones shall a meal or need a drink o€ water is more bold in his stand for the Word of God, be bmit upon Uiee," Notice how iniiiutely important to him than anything tlie king there will be people who admire and God predicts tlie €uture of Jeroboam's might do €or him, Consequently the respect him and who wish to be identified altar, and three hundred fi€ty-one years prophet begins his homeward journey with him in a personal way, One of the later the prediction will be fulfilled (I1 back to Judah. most successful ways to do this is to Kings 23:15,16), Since it will be invite him into their homes. The aged centuries before Josiah will come and do QUESTIONS prophet is so desirous to have the young this, the Young prophet gives on-the- 1 Recite the 3 memory-facts for this event. prophet in his home he momentarily gives spot sign to the king to prove his 2. What long-range prediction IS made concerning the in to the temptation that ''the end justifies prediction will come true in its own time: 3, ::: order does the king the means" and tells him an angel "This iS the Sign which the Lord bath 4 What two happenings humble the proud king? appeared to him and told him to bring the spoken; Behold, the altar shall be rent, 6. How does the king regain the use of hls hand? young man home. and the ashes that are upon it shall be 6 Why does the prophet refuse to go to the king's The foregoing assunies the aged poured out.'' prophet to be a prophet of God also, The arrogant king is in€uriated at such 9, The Young Prophet Meets a causing one to inquire, "If he is a true ruthless condemnation of his royal Tragic Death prophet, why hasn't he said something to religious set-up, and he entertains no the king about his sinful Bethel set-up?" thought of changing his ways. Instead he ASSIGNMENTS First o€ all, we don't know he hasn't. But orders, "Lay hold on him," and lie points if he hasn't, he may be like a local to the prophet. It is at this point that God 1. Read I Kings 13:11-32, preacher who may not be as bold against who sent the propliet steps in. Two tliligs 2. Study the event until You can tell it. congregational conditions as an outside inmediately happen: the king's hand dries 3. Memorize these facts about the event: preaclier who speaks oLlt more readily a. An older prophet invites him to his up about what he sees. This is why outside so he cannot even pull it back, and the home in Bethel. and pours Out its before b, The young prophet accepts when told preachers are needed in any congregation the king's bewildered eyes, In one clear that an angel is behind the invitation, from time to time--revivalmeeting lesson Jeroboain learns what Nebucliad- c. While the young prophet is eating, preaching, if YOU please! nezzar will learn later-that "those that God reveals his fate. Let us follow the pair now to the walk in pride" God "is able to abase" d. The young prophet is killed by a lion. prophet's house. As they sit at meat, (Dan 4:37), 8. The older prophet buries him in his everybody seems to be happy: the young In his humbled condition what is his own tomb. prophet because God has seemingly given first concern? As is so ofSen the case, him consent to accept this hospitality and people are more disturbed over their own COMMENTS the old prophet because he is able to personal reverses than they are the extend tlie hospitality. All the while, condition of their religion. Character- nter, a bewilde+% llard-to-fifigure- though, God has not forgotten what He istically Jeroboam is more concerned over Out man--an old ProPliet living at told the young prophet, and this one who his hand than he is the altar. He asks the EBethel. IS this man customarily a so pleased God with his faithful delivery prophet to pray that Jehovah will restore Prophet, Or is he a false Prophet? If of His message to the king is now his hand, The prophet, like many a good- Why lias he liot rebuked the king's displeasing Him by his own disobedience. hearted preacher who is forgiving of calf-worshiP? If WllY does he have The sad part is he thinks he is doing those who have done things against his anything to do With the Young Prophet? right--he is deceived by what the aged 16 DIVIDEDKINGDOM HISTORY prophet claims to be a revelation. His News is brought into Bethel of a lion's on the lodge's use of these very words in case warns us when we know what God standing beside a young man's corpse and its burial service and found a comparison has said in His Word, we should accept his riderless ass. The place this lion plays between the old prophet's deceiving the nothing contrary to it even if its in this event reminds one of the place the young man and being partly responsible proclaimer claims it to be given him by whale played as God's agent in Jonah's for his doom and the lodge's deceiving a revelation of God. Prov. 14:12 says, case, The whale was there to swallow candidate as to the unavailability of its "There is a way that seemeth right, but him. But God did not allow the whale to secrets and "light" elsewhere and helping the end thereof are the ways of death," digest him. At God's order the whale bring doom to him (see your author's and this verse perfectly fits the young swam near the shore and spewed Jonah work, "Lodges Considered from the man's case both in his thinking he is out. In our present event the lion kills the Christian Viewpoint") and then saying at doing the right thing and the sad results prophet but does not eat him. Nor does his burial, "Alas, my brother!" of it, the lion keep the aged prophet from In God's bringing judgment on the removing the corpse. Our conclusion? QUESTIONS young man, we see His principle set forth Since the lion is acting contrary to a lion's 1 Recite the 5 memory-facts for this event in Eze. 18:24 in application: "When the nature and since this event is being 2 Is the young prophet from Israel or Judah? presided over by Providence, God is in 3 Does he address the king or the altar? righteous turneth away from his 4 What does he predict? righteousness.,.all his righteousness... complete control of the lion just as He 5 What sign does he give Jeroboam that his prediction shall not be mentioned: in his trespass was when preserving Daniel from the will come true? 6 Why does he refuse the king's hospitality? that he hath trespassed... shall he die." lions in the den but caused his enemies to 7 Why does he go home with the aged prophet? God's verdict in the disobedience of the be devoured by the same lions. 8 Tell of the young man's death young prophet: he will die. God's method As soon as the old prophet hears of 9 Tell of his burial of communicating His judgment to him is the lion and the corpse, he knows it is the IO. The Arrogant Jeroboam through the aged prophet, thus forcing the young man. It is the young prophet who Continues His Wrong Ways deceiver to expose his own lie to the very has died, but don't forget the "living one he has deceived. For some reason in death" the old prophet will experience ASSIGNMENTS this case God is not settling for a mere from this day forth because of what he 1. Read I Kings 13:33,34. rebuke of the disobedient, for God says to has brought on the unsuspecting victim. 2. Study the event until you can tell it. the young man through the aged prophet, Nothing can bother an honest person 3. Memorize these facts about the event: "Thy carcase shall not come unto the more than living after he has been a. He appoints more non-Levitical priests. sepulchre of thy fathers." Let us realize in responsible for the death of another. We b. God detenines to wipe out his house. that time not to be buried among one's can, therefore, understand why he goes own people was nothing short of a out, gets the body, prepares it for burial, COMMENTS tragedy. and places it in his own tomb. He feels We are not told whether the meal just as Joseph of Arimathea and ing Jeroboam was humbled when continues or abruptly ends (probably the Nicodemus felt who were smitten for not God smote his hand and split latter). Sad and fed,the young prophet standing up for Jesus among their fellow- Kpen his altar. Though king he trudges out to his beast. Full of grief rulers but took charge of Jesus' lifeless realized he was powerless before the because of what he has brought on the body, bought spices and linen, and buried Power represented by the young prophet. young man, the aged prophet goes with it in Joseph's own newly-hewn rock tomb But will his changed attitude be lasting or him to saddle the ass for him. Sadness (Luke 23:50-53; John 19:38-42). only temporary? With far too many prevails as the prophet from Judah slowly The prophet of Bethel tells his sons, people repentance is short-lived, based rides off, and the old prophet tearfully "When I am dead, then bury me in the more on momentary feelings than on watches him go. sepulchre wherein the man of God is lasting conviction and is, as Hos. 6:4 He does not ride very far out of Bethel buried; lay my bones beside his bones: for records, goodness that soon passes as a until he is attacked by a lion, God's agent the saying which he cried by the word of morning cloud or the early dew. of punishment. (Yes, there were lions in the Lord against the altar in Bethel, and Jeroboam likely learns of the young Palestine then, particularly in the thickets against all the houses of the high places prophet's death, so he feels somewhat along the Jordan but also elsewhere: which are in the cities of Samaria, shall relieved of the pressure he felt when he David killed a lion, I Sam.17:34; Samson surely come to pass." was alive and in his presence. As time also, Judg. 14:5,6; one of David's mighty As he entombs the young man, he passes, there is a need for more priests. men slew one in a pit on a snowy day, I says, "Alas, my brother!" A preacher was Jeroboam proceeds as before, selecting Chron. 11:22; and others.) preaching on why he had left the lodge. non-Levitical priests. It is obvious he is As he concluded his sermon, he remarked DIVIDED KINGDOM HISTORY 17

going to continue his man-made religious she disguises herself so the prophet will nothing to do but return home with the set-up, And God, who set hiin up as Icing not recognize her lo be Jeroboam's wife. sad news, And she luiows she will never in the first place, decides to move against And to top it off tlie gi€t she bears is not see her son alive again, for he will die the the and ultimately a royal gifi but a poor person's gift. All is moment her feet enter the city. His death destroy it. The next event will tell us of set to obtain an answer €rom the aged (like a divine sign) will prove the rest of His beginning to cut off Jeroboam's prophet, the bad news predicted will also be house, It was Lincoln who once said you can fulfilled in its time, 0 Jeroboam, truly fool part of tlie people part of tlie time "the way of the transgressor is hard" QUESTIONS aid some ofthe people all of tlie lime, but (Prov. 13:15)! 1. Reoite the 2 memory-faots for this event. you can't €001 all o€ the people all of the 2. What factor(s) may have caused hls repentance to be time, And we might add from Jeroboam's QUESTIONS short-lived? wife's case and from Scripture that 1. Recite the 4 memory-facts for this event. nobody can fool God any of the the! 2. Why do they choose to consult Ahijah about their son 1% God Delivers Bad News to Jeroboam and his wife are to find this out rather than somebody else? Jero boam 3. Why do they not want him to know who is making (as did Cain, Ananias and Sapphira, and the inauiw? a 4. How does the prophet show she is not fooling him? ASSIGNMENTS host of others). to 6. What doe8 the prophet say about her Son? As the lrwries 6 What does he say about the rest of Jeroboam's 1. Read I Kings 14:1-18q Shiloh, God reveals their plot to the house? 2, Study the event until you can tell it. propliet, As she nears his house, he 7 What does he foretell about Jeroboam's kingdom? 3. Memorize these facts about the event: speaks, "Come in, thou wife of Jeroboam; a. Jeroboam's wife goes to the prophet why feignest thou thyself to be another? 12* Rehoboam's First Three Years Ahijah to see if their child will get well. For 1 am sent to thee with heavy tidings." are Prosperous b. The aged Prophet 1s not fooled by her And her trip that gew out of concern for disguise. their son becomes the means of her being ASSIGNMENTS c. God will destroy both the house of Jeroboarn and his kingdom. told his death will be the least of several Read Kings 14:y and II Chron, :5- d. Her sick son, who will die when she calamities to come upon them. The son is 23. reaches home, will be the anly son to die, but because he is under the age of 2, Study the event until you can tell it, who will receive a burial. accountability, lie will be buried. But the 3. Memorize these facts about the event: rest of Jeroboam's house will be brutally a, Rehoboam fortifies varlous cities and COMMENTS killed and have no burials, Those killed in supplies them with military equipment the city will be eaten by dogs while those and food supplies. eroboam may be through with the killed out in the fields will be eaten by b. His kingdom is greatly strengthened by godly priests and people coming to young prophet, but he is not through vultures. And in lime the whole kingdom him out of the Northern Kingdom. Jwith God--or rather, God is not itself will Pas Out ofcxkknce because Of c, H~ has eighteen wives, sixty through with hiin! It is shallow thinking the idolatry Jeroboam has initiated. As we concubines, twenty-eight sons, and to suppose wlien a person has gotten shall see Baasha will fulfill the first part sixty daughters. some preacher off his back, he has also (the destsuction of Jeroboam's household) d. He makes his sons rulers in the gotten rid of God. and Assyria the last part (the destruction defenced cities and chooses Abijah as Jerobom's divhely-sent ~0~0~sbegin of his kingdom). Cod's dealings with his successor. Wiu~lhe serious illness of his son Abijah. Jeroboam prove to be even more severe 8. During the first three years of his As he lingers between life and death, the than His dealings with Saul and Solomon: reign Rehoboam walks with God. suspense over whether lie will live or die sad Sinned, and his house lost the throne is more than the king and his wife can but was not blotted Out; Solomon sinned, COMMENTS stand, To tlie south of them at Shiloh is and God divided his kingdom, his family the good prophet Ahijah. You will recall ruling only two of the original twelve lease do not confuse the names he was tlie one who predicted the rise of tribes. hi this we must see the ellormity Of "Jeroboam" and "Rehoboam", We Jeroboam to power eve11 when Solomoll Jeroboam's sin before God. Furthermore Phave been studying about Jeroboam, the break-away ruler of the was still living. The king knows he is not he has 110 David in his bac1WQ~d Northern Kingdom's ten tribes. Now we doing Jehovah's will, but he hopes to get to Whom God would be good by the prophet of Jehovah to say his sol1 will continuing his house and family on the are studying about Rehoboam, Solomon's live. Because he is not doing right, he thrcm. son ruling the Southern Kingdom's two sends his wife to the prophet instead of As fie wife of Jeroboam hears tragedy tribes. going himself, and as an extra precautioli after tragedy to be€all her family, there is 18 DIVIDEDKINGDOM HISTORY

As we consider Rehoboam's around it, station soldiers in it, equip it had established the kingdom and had beginning, let us recall that in his with military equipment, and lay up food- strengthened himself. receiving only two tribes to rule, God was supplies in it in the event of a siege.) He not angry with him but his father utilizes his many sons in helping govern QUESTIONS

Solomon who had sinned grievously and his kingdom by assigning them to his 1. Recite the 2 memory-facts for this event had been told that nearly all of his great various fortified cities. The fact he selects 2 What do people often do in their prosperity? kingdom would be taken from his family. Abijah as his successor indicates he was Rehoboam just happens to be the son not the oldest of his many sons. 14. Judak't Wealth Is Removed to who succeeds Solomon and has to be As you can see, these first years of PWPt content with a two-tribe kingdom. Yes, he righteousness are years of strength, for acted foolishly in accepting the young "the blessing of the Lord, it maketh rich, ASSIGNMENTS men's advice, but even if he had acted and he addeth no sorrow with it" (Prov. wisely, the full kingdom would not have 10:22). 1. Read I Kings 14:25-31a and II Chron. 12:2-16a. been his, for God had said it would be 2. Study the event until you can tell it. QUESTIONS divided, and his foolish handling of 3. Memorize these facts about the event: matters at his coronation but became the 1 Recite the 5 memory-facts for this event a. Shishak of Egypt plunders Jerusalem's occasion of God's dividing the kingdom. 2 How old is Rehoboam as he begins to rule? wealth. Our text says he and his kingdom did 3 Why do the priests and many good people leave b. Rehoboam replaces his departed gold the Northern Kingdom? what was right in God's sight for three 4 What does his fortifying certain cities consist of? shields with brass ones. years. We have already noted when he 5 Whom does Rehoboam appoint as rulers over his fortified cities? COMMENTS was prepared to march against Jeroboam 6 How long does this state of righteousness-and- in an attempt to bring all the kingdom blessing continue? back under his rule, he listened to God's od's answer to Rehoboam's prophet Shemaiah who told him not to go 13. Rehoboam FoolishIy Forsakes apostasy is Pharaoh Shishak of to battle against his brethren (Israel) Jehovah GEgypt. Shishak is no friend of because the division was divinely caused Solomon's house, having provided (see I Kings 12:21-24). But he is also ASSIGNMENTS political asylum for Jeroboam when he greatly helped by the voluntary coming of fled from Solomon (I Kings 11:40). He the priests and many godly people out of 1. Read II Chron. 12:l and I Kings 14:22-24. knows of the great wealth amassed at 2. Study the event until you can tell it. Jeroboam's kingdom who demonstrate it Jerusalem under David and Solomon and 3. Memorize these facts about the event: is eager to obtain it--and because of is really more important to serve God a. Rehoboam forsakes Jehovah (probably than stay in one's ancestral location. In through pride). Rehoboam's sins God is going to allow it. this they remind us of the members of the b. He worships heathen gods. In fact Rehoboam's sins are so bad God is Jerusalem church who fled from minded to put an end to the Jerusalem Jerusalem because of their faith in Christ COMMENTS government. rather than deny Him and maintain their To be sure he can overpower homes (Acts 8:l). But let us not think fter three years of great Jerusalem Shishak comes with one Rehoboam to be "just a kid" when he prosperity, prosperity brought thousand two hundred chariots, three takes over the reins of government. He is Aabout by God's blessing, it is thousand men on horses, and an forty-one and like his father before him surprising to see King Rehoboam turn innumerable army made up of Egyptian has many wives (forty-one) and concu- from Jehovah to heathen idolatry. It is soldiers plus hired-soldiers from other bines (sixty) by whom he fathers many surprising until we remember people African countries. Judah cannot resist this children (twenty-eight sons and sixty often forsake God in prosperity but seek formidable array. First Shishak takes the daughters). Him in adversity. Moses warned Israel, outlying fortified cities before coming With God's blessing on him during "When...God shall have brought thee into against Jerusalem. the first three years he fortifies large, the land ...to give thee great and goodly While Rehoboam's rulers are strategicallylocated cities in his kingdom. cities...and houses full of good things,,, assembled with him from throughout his Fifteen are mentioned: Bethlehem, Etam, and wells...vineyards and olive trees.. .; dominion, God sends the prophet Tekoa, Bethzw, Shoco, Adullam, Gath, when thou shalt have eaten and be full; Shemaiah to them. Rehoboam had Mareshah, Ziph, Adoraim, Lachish, then beware lest thou forget the Lord" hearkened to Shemaiah when God sent Azekah, Zorah, Aijalon, and Hebron (Deut. 6:lO-12). Just before our I1 Chron. him to him before (I Kings 12:22-24).He besides unnamed other ones in Benjamin. text says Rehoboam forsook the law of is now sent to tell them God is bringing (Fortifying a city meant to build a wall the Lord, it expressly says it was after he Shishak against Rehoboam because he DIVIDEDKINGDOM HISTORY 19 bas €orgotten Him, Again Rehoboam himself in Jerusalem, and reigned," we The stale of hostilities that bas existed humbles lhiself before God and declares conclude things are better for a time. between Jeroboain and Rehoboam now God is just in His judgment. As a result Then when we read a verse later that "he breaks out into open warfare between Sheinaiah promises Shishak will not ' be did evil, because he prepared iiot his lieart Jeroboam and the house of Rehoboam permitted to destroy Jerusalem but to to seek the Lord," we conclude his represented by Abij ah. Even though God plunder Uie temple and tlie palace of their righteousness does not last very long. forbad Rehoboam to go to battle against prized treasures, Consequently Judah Particulars of Rehoboam's middle and his brethren in Israel (I Kings 1221-24), surrenders peacefully to Shishak wlio latter years are lacking. A state of it appears that Abijah - iiot Jeroboain helps liimsel€to tlie vast treasure. hostilities exists as long as both he and - is the one wlio instigates this present Upon his return to Egypt Sliishak Jeroboam live, A€ter a seventeen-year confrontation, inscribes his victory in a great wall- reign he dies at tlie age of fifty-eight, The two armies assemble at an inscriptioii in the Temple of Karnak in insignificant place called Mt. Zemaraiin, which he claims to have taken one QUESTIONS a mountain likely near tlie city of hundred fifty-six cities from the Jews of 1 Recite the 2 memorpfacts for this event Zeinaraim mentioned in Josh, I 8 :21,22 Palestine for his god Amon, The 2 What prophet is sent to Rehoboam? (near Bethel). From the top of the hill inscription contains one hundred fiftysix 3 What message does he deliver? Abij ah delivers an emotional speech to 4 When Rehoboam humbles himself, what message Jewish captives, each captive does God send him? Jeroboam and his nien, As he claims representing a captured city. Shishak's 6 Tell about the shields Jehovah as Judah's God and their fidelity 6 Does Rehoboam repent? mummy has been found in a silver 7 How long does he reign? to Him as the basis €or God's being with sarcophagus within ail outer case of solid them, and as he rebukes Jeroboam for gold--probably some of the silver and 15, Abijah's Reign Includes a forsaking Jehovah and setting up golden gold he took in this very raid and which Great Vlctory over Jeroboam calves while rejecting God's priesthood once graced the temple and palace. for priests of his own making, Abijah Edersheim points out the Israelite cities ASSIGNMENTS sounds much like a preacher, and as he included in Shishak's raid were cities of charges Jeroboam with conspiring against the Levites and Canaanites. He says they I. Read I Kings 14:31b--15:8 and II Chron. his father Rehoboam when he was were cities "in all parts of the territory of 12:16b--I4:l. "young" and "tender-hearted", lie sounds the ten tribes, and at considerable 2. Study the event until you can tell it, like a prosecuting attorney, Though distances from one another, there being, 3. Memorize these facts about the event: Abijali seems to have his information however, no mention of the taking of the a. Abijah goes against Jeroboam. about his father wrong (Rehoboam was intervening cities. All these facts point to b. He delivers a great speech to not so young--he was fortyone when he Jeroboam and Israel. became king--nor did he appear to be the conclusion...that the Levitical and c. Jeroboam surrounds Abljah and ancient Canaanite cities within the Judah. tender-hearted when he roughly answered territory of Jeroboam did not d, Outnumbered and surrounded, Abijah Jeroboain and the people), yet God is acknowledge his rule" ("Bible History" by and Judah call on God, pleased with the rest of the speech. When Ederslieh). Since Jeroboam and Sliishalc e. God gives Abijah and Judah a great his speech ends, "0 children of Israel, are cordial friends, we don't expect victory. fight ye not against the Lord of your Shishak to take any of Jeroboam's cities f. Abijah has fourteen wives, twenty-two fathers; for ye shall not prosper," is while Jeroboam is glad for him to raid sons, and sixteen daughters. Abijah actually expecting (or at least these cities not recognizing him. hoping) to see Israel lay down its arms? After the Jerusalem raid particularly Well the warlike Jeroboani is iiot to be missed are "the famous shields used by COMMENTS convinced by speeches but takes Soloinon's body-guard on state advantage of Judah's army's location to occasions" ("Edersheim") that were kept t seems strange to be having a new surround it. This is done when Judali is in tlie House of the Forest of Lebanon. king over either portion of the once- not aware-maybe even during Abijah's There had been two hundred of the larger Iunited kingdom as Rehoboam has slieecli. When Judah becomes aware of its ones and three hundred of the smaller died and is now replaced by tlie pick of situation, they see Jeroboam has them in ones. I1 Chron. 9:15,16 tells the his sons-Abijah (I1 Chron, 11:22) or a desperate situation. (If it is while Abijah enormous amount of gold involved in "Abijam" as lie is also called, What kind is delivering his speech that Jeroboain these. Rehoboam replaces them with of king will lie be? And will Jeroboam, surrounds lkn, he tlhks lie is quite smart substitute shields o€brass. the veteran of eighteen years of ruling, try to let him preach but iiot listen. But the When it says, "In Judah things went to intimidate this beginner in Judah? battle that follows demonstrates well. So king Rehoboam strengthened Jeroboam should have been listening. 20 DIVIDEDKINGDOM HISTORY

God is able to humble the proud and the 2 What is Milah's other name7 rather to be chosen than great riches" 3 How long has Jeroboam ruled in the North when wicked.) Abilah begins? (Prov 22: 1); "A good name is better than Trust in God often enables a minority 4 How many men does Milah have? Jeroboam? precious ointment" (Eccl7: 1). to overcome a majority (Psa. 18:29). 5 Give the gist of Milah's speech? Generally speaking a itgood''king in 6 What does Jeroboam do instead of regarding the Abijah and Judah are faced with the speech7 Kings and Chronicles is one who gravity of the situation, realizing they 7 What does Judah do before beginning the battle? worships Jehovah rather than idols while 8 Who wins the battle? have only four hundred thousand soldiers 9 How many men does Jeroboam lose? an "evil" king is an idolatrous king. In to Jeroboam's eight hundred thousand, 10 How many wives does Abljah have? How many Asa's revolt against idolatry he qualifies and that Jeroboam occupies the strategic sons? How many daughters? as "good", and God blesses him with 11 How long does Abijah reign? position. What is Judah going to do? peace and prosperity in which he fortifies They cry out to Jehovah, the priests blow 16, A Powerful New King Arises in many of Judah's cities and develops an the trumpets like the priests did at the Judah army of five hundred eighty thousand. battle of Jericho (Josh. 6:20), and the Asa is going to be around for awhile, people shout. God turns Jeroboam's ASSIGNMENTS and he will be a powerfbl king as well as cleverness into defeat in answer to a long-ruling one. Judah's prayers, siding with Judah in 1. Read I Kings 15:8b-12 and II Chron. administering a telling defeat to Jeroboam 1411b-8. QUESTIONS 2. Study the event until you can tell it. and the idolatrous North. In this battle 1. Recite the 3 memory-lacts for this event. Memorize these facts about the event: Jeroboam loses five hundred thousand 3. 2. Who is still ruling in the North? men plus several of his border cities- Asa begins a long rule of forty-one 3. Any good king of the South is compared to what years. former great king? including Bethel! He is the first Divided Kingdom king 4. Any bad king of the North is compared to what Even though Jeroboam reigns several former bad king? listed as "good'. 5. What is usually meant in Kings and Chronicles by a more years, he is not able to rebuild In his peaceful prosperity he fortifies "good" king? An "evil" one? enough to become strong again. His case Judah's cities and builds a large army. 6. What does Asa do during his peaceful years of surely reminds us of the truth of that prosperity? proverb, "Pride goeth before destruction, COMMENTS and haughty spirit before a fall" (Prov. 17, Jeroboam's Son Reigns Only an Two Years 16:18). eroboam is still living and ruling in In contrast the victorious Abijah Israel as Judah's third king takes ASSIGNMENTS becomes stronger. During his years he Jover. But he will not outlive Asa, the marries fourteen wives and has twenty- new king, for Asa will be on the throne 1. Read I Kings 1419,20; 15:25-31; II two sons and sixteen daughters. He is the for forty-one years! Chron. 13:20. last king of Judah whose number of wives Even though Rehoboam and Abijah 2. Study the event until you can tell it. and children is mentioned. Likely the had some good events in their reigns, they 3. Memorize these facts about the event: practice of having an extreme number of were still listed as evil (Rehoboam--11 a. Jeroboam is divinely smitten with wives and children came to be less and Chron. 12:14; Abijah--I Kings 15:3).Asa death. less significant until finally it lost all is going to improve on them (the way it b. Nadab continues the calf-worship. significance. A glance at the following c. After Nadab rules two years, Baasha should be). He becomes the first king of assassinates him and kills all the tabulation shows it has been on the either South or North of whom it is house of Jeroboam. decline: recorded, "Asa did that which was right in Solomon - seven hundred wives and the eyes of the Lord, as did David his COMMENTS three hundred concubines (we are not told father." We will note throughout this the number of his children). study of Divided Kingdom History that t seems Jeroboam will continue Rehoboam - eighteen wives, sixty any good king of the South will be said to reignins "forever", but his end finally concubines, eighty-eight children. be good like David while every evil king Icomes after twenty-two years on the Abijah - fourteen wives and thirty- of the North will be said to walk in the throne. We do not know the cause of his eight children way of Jeroboam, the son of Nebat, who death, but when I1 Chron. 13:20 says he Since Abijah has a short reign of only made Israel to sin, reminding us of Prov. is smitten of God and dies, it suggests his three years, we are left wondering just 10:7: "The memory of the just is blessed: death comes in some unusual way or at what brought about his early death. but the name of the wicked shall rot." some unexpected time as a judgment from Each of us should want to be remembered God. QUESTIONS for our good (like David) rather than for This brings his son Nadab to the 1. Recite the 6 memory-facts for this event our bad (like Jeroboam). "A good name is throne. This is a crucial time in Israel, and DIVIDEDKINGDOM HISTORY 21

Israel's €utwe course is greatly dependent 18, The Wicked Baasha's House 19, MaGains a Great Victory on whether the new king will continue the Will be Wiped out Also over Ethiopia tal€-worship at Dan and Bethel with wl6h God is so displeased or whether he ASSIGNMENTS ASSIGNMENTS will repudiate it and allow his people to 1. Read I Kings 15:33-16:4. 1. Read II Chron. 149-15:19, 2, Study the event until you can tell it. attend the Jerusalem €ea& again as the 2. Study the event until you can tell it. 3. Memorize these facts about the event: 3, Memorize these facts about the event: law of Moses requires. Though neither be a. Baasha continues calf-worshlp. a. A great Ethiopian army Invades nor Israel realizes it, this inan can make b. The prophet Jehu is sent to tell him Judah. the difference between Israel's continuing his house will also be wiped out. b. Asa prays for God's help. as a nation or ullirnately being blotted out c. God gives a great victory. once and for all time, Similarly most of us COMMENTS d, Asa plunders Philistia on his way do not really realize tlie dif€erence we can back. make either in tlie Lord's work, in our od lias enabled Baasha to e. The prophet Azariah encourages Asa nation, in our community, in our €aiiiily- overthrow the house of Jeroboaiii to serve Jehovah. f. Asa is even stronger against idolatry. line, or in the lives o€ others. In Nadab's Gbecause o€ his instituting calf- case we are sorry to see liis perpetuating worship. How €oolish then it seems €or COMMENTS the cal€-worslip. Baasha to perpetuate it! It is sad when Will he get to have a long rule like his people do not learn from tlie mistakes o€ od loves to show Himself' strong father? No, it is cut short after only two others, Baasha seems to fall €or the in behalf' of those who put their years by the first assassination in tlie illusion €rom tlie devil that "it will not trust in Him, King Asa might llistory o€ either Israel of Judah. It comes happen to me'' even though it has G wonder why God is allowing an invasion about while Israel is warring with the happened to others, Will God be more of Judali by a million Ethiopians with Philistines over tlie city of Gibbetlion. pleased when Baaslia does this than when three hundred chariots, for lie has Baasha, probably one of Nadab's Jeroboain did it? No, for He is a God of €aithfully served God. God is not bringing influential military men, conspires against principle. Right is right no matter who is them against Asa to break his years of him while at Gibbethoii and kills him. doing it, and wrong is wrong no matter peace because of any sin he lias done. It And since he aspires to the throne, lie who is doing it, God respects principles, appears the Ethiopians have come of their slays all tlie household of Jeroboani not persons (Rom. 2: 11). Just because own will, but God has allowed it because (remember Ahijah's predicting this in I God has used Baasha to bring judgment it will result in a greater Asa and a greater Icings 14:10,11?), Baasha's bold act is on tlie house of Jeroboain does not mean Judah. Let us observe that even godly just the beginning of assassinations that Baasha is a privileged character to do people do not always understand why from time to time will rock the Northern whatever lie wants to, and God will pay God allows certain things to happen, but Kingdom throughout its history as no attention to it. we can always be sure He is leading and aspirants-to-power rise against tlie kings. God dispatches the prophet Jehu "doeth all things well". Note that each assassin who takes over (don't confuse him with a later king by Asa Iuiows he is no match for such a brings a new family or line o€ kings to this same name) who tells Baasha that sizable military aggregation, But don't power. All tlie rulers of a given €amily what be€ell Jeroboam's house will also forget that "man's extremity" can be compose a "dynasty". Baasha begins the befall his and €or the same reason. The "God's opportunity". What is "big" to us second dynasty in the Northern Kingdom. next time Baasha's house will be tlie is nothing to Almighty God, In the midst Why such a traumatic time in Israel? recipient o€ God's wrath instead of being of danger Asa does what God wants all From Baasha's standpoint it is to wipe the administrator o€it. Evidently Baasha His people to do: pray and lean on Him out any rivals €or tlie throne, but €rom pays no attention to the prophet, for we and recognize that numbers mean nothing God's standpoint it is to bring His read o€ no repentance on his part and no to Iliin. "God is our refuge and strength, promised judgment against tlie house of changing of the decree on God's part. If a very present help in trouble" (Psa. Jeroboam €or setting up that calf-worship lie and Israel repent, tlie decree against 46:l). He can give a believing minority (I Kings 14:7-10). them will be changed (Jer. 18:7,8). victory over a vast majority. Israel of Moses' day did not think this way as they QUESTIONS QUESTIONS listened to the despairing thoughts of tlie 1. Recite the 3 memory-facts for this event. 1. Reoite the 2 memory-facts for this event. ten spies (Num. 13:31-33). 2. What difference can Nadab make in the whole 2. What foolish mistake does Baasha make? future of Israek history? 3. What message is sent to him from the Lord? experienced this blessing from God 3. What is Baasha's motive in assassinating Nadab? 4. What evidence do we have that Baasha does not (Judg. 7:7). So did Samson (Judg. 15:14- 4. What is Gods purpose in allowing him to do it? repent? 16). So did Jonathan (I Sam. 14:6-16). So 6. What is meant by a "dynasty" of kings? 22 DIVIDEDKINGDOM HISTORY did David (I1 Sam. 22:30). This causes into Judah because of the revival going on Asa seems to be a different person God to be glorified and keeps men from there? We shall see. now than when he relied on God against taking credit for such victories (Judg. the army of the Ethiopians. Instead of 7:2). God enabled the lone prophet Elijah QUESTIONS attacking Baasha with the Lord's blessing to bring a mighty victory over Ahab's four 1 Recite the 6 memory-facts for this event he turns to the Syrians for help. If he has hundred fifty prophets of Baal (I 2 How many soldiers and chariots does Ethiopia a strong faith now and gains another great Kings18:38-40), and He still uses the have? victory, Asa will go down in history as a 3 Cite other Biblical cases where minorities overcame lesser to overcome the greater (I Cor. majorities because of God's help king of great faith, but his lack of it 1:27-29). 4 Who IS Maachah, and what happens to her7 begins his ultimate undoing, And their faith is not misplaced. The silver and gold that he and his "Faith" and "Victory" go together (I John *O* BaasheSeeks to stop father have put into the temple and palace 5:4), and God gives them a mighty People's Leaving Israel to replace what Shishak removed to victory. This trial of their faith, like Egypt during Rehoboam's reign are now chastening, has not been joyous, but it ASSIGNMENTS sent to Ben-hadad of Syria as hire for his has proven to be a blessing since their 1. Read II Chron. 16:l-10. military help. The king of Syria is not faith stood the test. 2. Study the event until you can tell it. only glad to receive this great hire but While Asa and the army are down in 3. Memorize these facts about the event: also to break his non-aggession pact with the Philistine Plain, they plunder some of a. Baasha begins fortifying Ramah to Israel (and succeeding events will include the hostile Philistine cities before keep more of his people from many wars between Syria and Israel). returning to Jerusalem. It is indeed a defecting to Judah. As Ben-hadad attacks cities in happy reception they are given as they b. Asa hires Syria to attack Baasha. &,asha's fa-north territory, Baasha has reenter Jerusalem. Among those coming C. While Baasha gws to fight with Syria, to muster all his forces to resist the out to meet them is the prophet Azariah Judah hauls the stones from Baasha's there. Baasha who urges Asa to continue seeking Ramah-project to Geba and Mizpeh stop his Ramah-project to protect his and fortifies them. Jehovah. Azariah's assuring message on northern territory, he compliments his top of the victories just realized fwther COMMENTS shrewdness and immediately issues a encourages Asa and Judah in their fidelity royal order for every man of his kingdom to Jehovah. They destroy idols out of the he number of godly people of to come to Ramah, and they lose no time land includmg some cities they have taken Baasha's kingdom packing up dismantling its walls and hauling its large from Israel, and they rebuild the altar of Ttheir belongings and migrating to stones to two border towns in Judah Jehovah in the temple. The king also calls Judah because God is with King Asa of (Geba and Mizpeh) which they fortify. It a great mass-meeting of his citizens, and the South is a great number, and Baasha turns out to be quite a victory for Asa as they are joined by many out of the is determined to put a stop to it. To do so he sees Baasha forced to "dwell in Northern Kingdom who see God is with he selects the prophet Samuel's border Tirzah" (I Kings 15:21). Asa. They first offer a sacrifice of some town of Ramah and begins fortifying it But his rejoicing is cut short by the of the spoils taken in their battles and (building a great wall around it and coming of the prophet Hanani who is then enter into a sacred covenant to serve outfitting it with gates and bars and dispatched to tell him of God's Jehovah. They depose the queen-mother equipping it with soldiers, military displeasure with the way he has handled Maachah because of her idolatry, destroy equipment, and food-supplies). From this his problem. When Hanani's message her idol, and bring into the temple the military outpost only five miles north of includes these words, "Herein thou hast treasures set aside for this purpose by Jerusalem Baasha can control traffic done foolishly" (in hiring the Syrians); both Asa and his father Abijah. (Asa's along the north-south road between the "therefore from henceforth thou shalt dealing with his idolatrous mother two kingdoms. have wars," Asa is too proud to be indicates God and righteousness are to While this fortifying goes on, Asa is reproved. Life teaches us it is not easy for come before our closest earthly ties-- trying to figure out just how to stop the successful people and prominent leaders Matt. 10:37. Gideon had done similarly project. He can go out and attack Baasha, to accept rebuke. Instead of humbling with his father's idol--Judg. 6:25-27.) but Baasha is strong. This is evident by himself before God Asa imprisons the Judah is stronger now than it has ever his having killed Elah and all Jeroboam's prophet and oppresses some of the people been since the division of Solomon's male descendants to get the throne. (probably those who agree with the kingdom. This is the high-point of Asa's Furthermore his "might" is specifically prophet and disagree with him). This rule. mentioned in I Kings 16:5, event proves to be the turning point in How is Baasha of the North going to Asa's career. Up to this time everything respond to some of his citizens' moving we read about him is good, everything DIVIDED KINGDOMHISTORY 23

afterward bad, (Note--Because the €ew royal steward Arza, (Most of tlie army to break camp and return lo Tirzali, lliitigs mentioned about Asa are not to his assassinations in Israel will be by high- and for tlie decisive battle that puts an compliment, we must not conclude lie is ranking officers, Being king was not end to Ziimi--Zimri's seven-day reign,) only evil, €or he contiiiues to rule for really safe. Kings found it difficult to But wait, Oiiu-i finds tlie tlu-one is not many years a€ter this event,) have capable o€ficers without their being his yet--there is another contestant for it. Be€ore leaving this event it is ambitious for tlie tlu-one. Sometimes The military may want him crowned king, interesting to note that hundreds of years people whom we aid and help advance but fully one-half o€ tlie people ' are later reference is made in Jer. 4 1:9 to a pit come to be our adversaries and wanting . Will the two €orces engage (maybe a cistern) that Asa makes at destroyers,) Drink has been the down€aIl in battle to see who will emerge as king, Mizpeh in this struggle with Baasha. of more than one niler (Elah). It also or will the kingdom exist for a time in a brought an end to world-conqueror state of divided con€usion? Evidently tlie QUESTIONS Alexander the Great. World War I1 in tlie latter, for our account says, "The people

1. Recite the 3 memory-facts for this event. Pacific was touched o€€by Japan's taking that €allowed Oinri prevailed against the 2. What Is involved In fortifying a city? advantage of weekend drunkenness on the people that €allowed Tibiii.,.So Tibni 3. What evidence do we have that Baasha is a slrong part of the U.S. military to bomb and died, and Oinri reigned," Evidently then king? 4. What mistake does Asa make early in this event? destroy our naval power at Pearl Harbor, Omnri, backed by the army, could force the 6. What pari of Baasha's kingdom does Ben-hadad Zinri gains admittmice to the house of issue, but with hal€ of tlie people €or attaok? Arza and kills the king who lias ruled Tibni he lias handled the case more 6. What prophet rebukes Asa? 7. What Is Asa's response to the prophet's rebuke? only two years, He then goes to tlie judiciously, and his patience pays off with palace, takes charge o€ it, and executes the death o€ Tibni (probably a natural 811, Zlmrl Touches off a Turbulent every descendant of Baasha who might death). Let us not forget how important Time in Israel lay claim to the throne. Thus the prophecy patience is: "The husbandman waiteth for of Jehu against Baasha (I Kings 16:1-4) the precious fruit o€ the earth, and liatli ASSIGNMENTS is fblfilled. long patience €or it, until he receive tlie Zimri has misjudged either the early and latter rain" (Jas. 5:7), and that 1, Read I Kings 16523. willingness o€ tlie people to have him as statement is introduced with, "Be patient 2. Study the event until you can tell it. 3. Memorize these facts about the event: king or lis ability to hold the throne once therefore, brethren, unto the coming of a. Zimri assassinates Elah. he has usurped it. He has more ambition the Lord." On the other hand, if Oinri liad b. He burns the palace down over him to be king than lie does wisdom to acted hastily, the end might have been in his defeat by Omri. become king permanently. When news of different. Haste is not always right: "He C. Omri finaily wins the throne after a his doings reaches the army down at that is hasty of spirit exalteth folly" long struggle with Tibni. Gibbetlion, the military is not €or him but (Prov. 14:29); "I said in my haste, All for its great captain Omri, Oiwi is eager men are liars" (Psa 116: 1 1). COMMENTS to become king, but he must dispose of Poor Tirzali is ready to settle down Zinlri, Iinniediately he breaks off the war a€ter going though Elah's assassination, he warlike Baasha has given Israel at Gibbethon, wliicli is in the Maritime the battle between Ziiiu-i and Omri and twenty-four years o€ strong rule Plain norlli o€ Ekron and west of Gezer, the attending burning of its palace, and Teven though God has seen little in and goes back up to Tirzali (a trip of the power-struggle betweeii Omri and liis reign to record €or us. He took the fifty-sixty miles) to put down Zimri. Tibni. At tlie end of this turbulent period sword in killing Jeroboam and his Upon arrival they lay siege to tlie city. the dead are Elah, Zimri, and Tibni. How household, and in this event his house The battle is going against Zinu-i, and he long lias all this consumed? looking at v. will perish by the sword as so ofteii sees his cause is hopeless, Fearing lie will 15 it starled in tlie twenty-seventli year o€ happens (Matt, 2652). His death now be killed by Omri, he decides to put an Asa and lasted until his thirty-first year brings lis son Elali to the throne of Israel. end to himself and also do as much (see v. 23). Jewish writings have it like But lie is not the ruler his father has been. damage €or Onui as lie can, so he sets fire this: "The division of the kingdom Instead of being with the army fighting to the palace and dies in its destruction. I€ between Tibni and Onxi began in the tlie Philistines at Gibbetlion, he is at he can't have the kingdom, Omri won't twenty-seventh year of Asa; this division home in Tirzali, have the palace. Thus ends Ziinri's short lasted five years, during which Oinri liad Zinlri, captain o€ one-half of Elah's reign of only seven days, tlie shortest but a share of the kingdom. Tibni dying, chariots, takes advantage of the army's reign of any king of either Israel or Judah. Omri came into possession of the wliole absence from the capital to overthrow (Seven days is about the time required for kingdom wliicli he held €or seven years; him. His chance is improved as tlie king news of the assassination to reach the this was the thirty-first year of Asa'l drinks l.limsel€drunken in tlie house of the army down in the Maritime Plain, €or tlie 24 DIVIDEDKINGDOM HISTORY

("Clarke's Commentary"). Just as Isa. who has stood on its height and noticed the South also becomes contaminated 57:20 says, "There is no peace, saith my the valley area completely surrounding it. with their evil. God, to the wicked," so the wicked The price is agreed on, and it becomes a The unfortunate thing about Omri's Northern Kingdom has hown very little royal site where the new palace is built wickedness is he is such a powerful king. peace. Our election-method of deciding and from which all future kings of the This is not as evident from the Biblical who is going to rule is so much more Northern Kingdom will rule. This new coverage, where but little is recorded peaceful than deciding it by the sword as city "Samaria" comes from the word about his reign, as it is from archaeology those times often did. "Shemer", the previous owner's name. where several important references to him Things will settle down under Omri, Maybe naming the city after Shemer was have been found. Evidently he has no and though it will be a wicked time in a condition of his selling it to Omri. Take religious virtues for God to record, but he Israel (Omri through Jehoram), it will be time to locate the city of Samaria on the does have political importance for his a politically strong period for the map in the back of your Bible. It is contemporaries to record. The Moabite Northern Kingdom. interesting to note that an archaeological Stone found at Dibon in Moab in 1868 expedition sponsored by Harvard shows he had been triumphant over Moab QUESTIONS University unearthed the ruins of the and had put it to tribute for several years

1 Recite the 3 memory-facts for this event palace here at Samaria. Nothing older (through the reigns of Omri and Ahab: I1 2 Who becomes king upon the death of Baasha? than Omri was found, confming the Kings' opening verse says, "Moab 3 Where is the army when this event opens? Biblical record that he began this city. rebelled against Israel after the death of 4 What is the king doing when this event opens? 5 What terrible things does Zimri do in the absence To make Shemer's hill the new center Ahab"). Also, the Black Obelisk of of the army from the capital city? of government is a wise move on Omri's Shalmaneser I11 of Assyria speaks of his 6 How does this battle between him and Omri go? 7 With whom is Omri forced to share leadership until part. Oh, that he were as wise in spiritual receiving tribute fiom King Jehu, and death removes him? matters! But he isn't. Omri is like many even though Jehu was four rulers later people: wise when it comes to material than Omri, the Obelisk identifies Jehu by 22, Omri leaves His Mark matters but foolish in spiritual matters. referring to him as a "successor of Omri". The Bible shows he is worse than Yes, Omri leaves his mark: he brings ASSIGNMENTS Jeroboam, worse than Nadab, worse than a new family to power that will rule for Baasha, worse than Elah, and worse than forty-eight years (four kings); he 1. Read I Kings 16:24-28a. Zimri, for "he did worse than all that were introduces a wickedness that lasts for 2. Study the event until you can tell it. before him". In fact, he is the beginning many years and that affects both Israel 3. Memorize these facts about the event: a. Omri establishes Samaria as a new of a new kind of evil in Israel. His and Judah; he selects a new capital city, capital. dynasty of rulers (composed of himself, and thereafter Samaria becomes the b. Omri is more wicked than any king of Ahab, Ahaziah, and Jehoram) will be by political center of all future Northern Israel before him. far the worst dynasty that either North or Kingdom operations; and he is powerful c. Archaeology reveals Omri's political South will have on the throne. Through enough for his name to find itself on the greatness. this family's intermarrying with and monuments of several nations of his time. having alliances with the contemporary COMMENTS kings of Judah, the Omri-Ahab evil will QUESTIONS

also infest the life of Jerusalem and 1 Recite the 3 memowfacts for this event wing the several year Omri-Tibni Judah, and two hundred years after the 2 What makes Shsrner's hill such a desirable place struggle the Northern Kingdom reign of Omri the prophet Micah will for a new capital city? 3 Why does Ornri call the new city "Samaria"? somehow made out without a bemoan the sin of Judah, saying "For the 4 Who will be the four kings of his dynasty? permanent palace after Zimri had burned statues of Omri are kept, and all the 5 How will the wickedness of the Omri-dynasty get it. Not until the kingship could be settled into Judah? works of the house of Ahab, and ye walk 6 What Stone and what Obelisk testify to Omn's was there going to be any attempt to in their counsels; that I should make thee political grealness? rebuild the palace. Now that Tibni is dead a desolation, and the inhabitants thereof and Omri is sole ruler in fbll control, he an hissing" (Mic. 6: 16). We see that Omri 93. Asa is Sfill Reigning when decides on an altogether different location well illustrates the statement in Eccl. Ahab Succeeds Omri for the capital itself. He bargains with a 9: 18, "One sinner destroyeth much good." man by the name of Shemer for an He is wicked; he begets a wicked son ASS IG NM ENTS enitience @l1) he owns that is completely Ahab who is even worse than Omri; Ahab surrounded by valley. That it is an ideal marries Jezebel who measurably adds to 1. Read I Kings 16:28-32; 11 Chron. 16:11- 14; and I Kings 15:23,24. location for the construction of a fortified the wickedness of Israel; their daughter city is verified by any observant person 2. Study the event until you can tell it. Athaliah marries the king of Judah, and 3. Memorize these facts about the event: DlViDED KINGDOMHISTORY 25

a. Asa, diseased in his feet in his last wlio lias been good in so many ways. If Ilie late 1920's refer to Baal as "Lord of years, does not seek the Lord's help we had only I1 Cllron. 16:12, it would be tlie Eartli" and "Rider of tlie Clouds". In the matter. easy to conclude that to utilize tlie help of Representations of Baal have been found b, Ahab marries the wicked Jezebel and a pliysician wlien one lias a disease is to with a club in one hand and a bolt of becomes the worst of all Israei's be guilty of not seeking tlie Lord. But liglitniiig in the otlia. Palestine's dry- kings. Jesus said, "They that be whole need iiot weather months of April tllrougli c. The curse of Joshua fails on Hiei of Bethel for rebuilding Jericho. a pliysician, but tliey that are sick" (Mat September are taken as times when Baal 9: 12), Hezekiah was healed by medical is losing tlie battle to Mot, tlie god of COMMENTS means by divine approval (Isa 38:21). Deatli and Aridity. In their iiiytliology The wrong is in seeking physicians' help Baal is awakened to life by his sister ow that Oinri has died and has without seeking tlie Lord's help in prayer. Aiiatli in October, and liis retwii to liis become the first king to be Asa is honored with a great fuieral throne is followed by his mating with his N eiitonibed at the new capital for the many years lie lias successfully wife Ashtoretli, and this insures rainfall Samaria, his son Ahab succeeds liim as ruled Judali. Otliers wlio were also thus and fertility for tlieir agriculture. To ruler in the Nortli. But would you believe honored in tlieir times were David (I stimulate Baal and Aslitoretli to mate, tlie king ruling in tlie South (Asa) lias Cllron. 29:28), Jeliosliapliat (I1 Clron. great sex-orgies take place in Baal been ruling ever since the last years of tlie 17:5), and Hezekiah. (11 Clron. 32:27), temples, and the consequent return to the Nortli's first king Jeroboam? But let us "The memory of the just is blessed" rain-season is also celebrated with more not be too surprised, for tlie Bible sliows (Prov. 10:7). temple-sex. In both Megiddo and Gezer that long life is ofkn bequeathed to the But what ltiiid of king does tlie Nortli archaeologists have found cemeteries of righteous (Eph. 6:3; Prov.3:1,2; Prov, now have in its new ruler Aliab? This son infant-remains in stone jars adjacent to 3:16). Exceptions to this evidently of 0nn-i is a "chip off tlie old block"--only places of Baal-worship. It is easy to see involve other considerations, Contrast worse! He not only perpetuates the why God is so opposed to Baalism! Psa. 55:23, wickedness of liis father but actually Baalism virtually becomes tlie Asa began in Jeroboam's twentieth enlarges on it. Like Onlri before liim, he national religion of Israel under Ahab and year (I Kings 15:9), and liis forty-one has masterful abilities, but tliey are Jezebel (to go along with Jeroboam's year reign (I Kings 15:lO) lias enabled regretfully dedicated to evil instead of golden calves), and they persecute the hiiii to be contemporary with tlie first good. How tragic! Jehovah-religion that is its chief' barrier seven kings of Israel (Jeroboam, Nadab, As if lie is not already bad enough, lie (notice two references to Jezebel's killing Baaslia, Elah, Zimri, Omri, and now sins greatly in violating God's law in God's prophets: I Kings 18:4 and I Kings Ahab). Altogether Israel's total history Deut. 7:3,4 (an Israelite is not to marry a 19:14). will know nineteen kings, and Asa has Gentile) when he marries Jezebel of Tlien in addition to lier Baalisni she is been contemporary with more than one- Plioenicia--andin marrying the particular a continual bad influence on her husband, third oi'them! For all Asa lived to see, we Phoenician woman lie does. Mixed stirring him up to many wicked tliings lie iniglit remark that "lie could have written marriages between Christians and non- will iiot otherwise do (I Kings 21:25). a book". Christians are also divinely forbidden (I And a bad mate like Jezebel can still be a When IGngs and Cllronicles normally Cor. 7:39; I1 Cor. 6: 14) and also unwise, person's downfall. This is demonstrated record deaths of kings, they state that tlie Ahab's marriage to this woman will by instances in every coimiiunity of our rest of tlieir acts are "written in the book prove to be the worst thitig spiritually that land! of tlie cllronicles of tlie kings of" either will ever befall the Nortliern Kingdoni. You may recall Josliua's solenxi Judali of Israel, depending on the Things will not be the same for inany stateinent wlien lie and Israel destroyed particular king and kingdom lie had ruled. years tllrougli lier bringing her Baal- tlie great Canaanite city Jericho with But it is noteworthy that Asa's acts are worship with lier. And to make matters God's help: "Cursed be tlie man before recorded in both the books of tlie kings of even worse this Baalism and tlie Aliab- tlie Lord, that riseth up and buildetli this Judah aiid Israel (I1 Clu-on. 16:11). Jezebel type of wickedness will get into city Jericho: lie shall lay tlie foundation But Asa will not survive much longer tlie life of the Southern Kiiigdom through thereof in his firstborn, aiid in his --only two or three years into Aliab's long die marriage of their daughter Atlialiah to youngest son shall lie set up the gates of reign of twenty-two years. But his last Jelioram, king of Judali. it" (Josh 626). Joshua's destruction of tlie years are sad ones. Two years before liis Baalisin is one ofthe most offensive great fortws city was one of the many death lie is plagued with a disease of his forms of idolatry to God. "Baal" means well known events in Israel's liistory, and feet. He should seek God's lielp but "master" or "owner", and lie is looked to likely tlie curse lie pronounced was also instead seeks physicians. Just why, we are as the god of weather and agriculture. well luiown and feared, for even though not told. It is a sad farewell to this king Inscriptions unearthed at Ras Sliamra in its ruins have occupied a prominent site 2 DIVIDEDKINGDOM HISTORY near the fords of the Jordan, has a great those who trust in him successful (Psa. 4. What unusual program does Jehoshaphal inaugurate in Judah? spring of fresh water, and its valley is a 111-3). 5. How does God bless him? virtual paradise in the otherwise arid area, Jehoshaphat is strong against Baalism, for over five hundred years nobody has removing the idolatrous high places and 25. lilijah Prays for and Proclaims dared rebuild it--not until Ahab's day. In groves. It is mentioned but not in any a Drought upon the Land Ahab's day, when the fear of Jehovah is at derogatory way that Jehovah-worship its lowest our text says, "In his days did (such as burning incense) is done in ASSIGNMENTS Hiel the Bethelite build Jericho," and the various high places. "Clarke's curse fell on his household (his firstborn Commentary" makes this observation 1. Read Jas. 519 and I Kings 17:l-24. died when he began the project and his concerning what might seem like a 2. Study the event until you can tell it. youngest when he completed it), The contradiction between the Kings' and the 3. Memorize these facts about the event: passing of several centuries did not Chronicles' accounts of Jehoshaphat's a. Elijah prays for God to send a drought as a punishment. nullify Joshua's curse pronounced by taking away and not taking away the high b. He foretells this drought to King Ahab. divine inspiration. places: "There were two kinds of high c. God provides for Elijah during the 3 places in the land: (1) those used for 112 years of drought. QUESTiONS idolatrous purposes; (2) those that were d. Elijah raises the widow's son.

1. Recite the 3 memory-facts for this event. consecrated to God and were used before 2. With how many kings of Israel has Asa been the temple was built. The former he did COMMENTS contemporary? take away; the latter he did not." 3. Who is ruling in Israel as he begins? Who when he dies? In his early reign Jehoshaphat fortifies e have been studying about the 4. What divine law does Ah& violate in marrying himself against the Northern Kingdom by two great kings of the South Jezebel? stationing soldiers in Judah and also in (Asa and Jehoshaphat) for 5. Why is God so against Baalism? W 6. Tell of Joshua's curse falling on Hiel. some cities his father had taken from the sometime. What has been developing in Northern Kingdom. We are not told the North in the meantime? M. Another Great King Arises in which cities these are, but they are also You will recall that wicked King Ahab the South mentioned in I1 Chron. 15: 8. is ruling here, and that his Phoenician- From the very beginning of his reign it wife Jezebel has killed off all the prophets ASSIGNMENTS is evident he is walking with God for of Jehovah she can find. With such which he is blessed (Heb. 11:6). Because wickedness enthroned in Israel Jehovah- 1. Read I Kings 22:41-43; I1 Chron. 17:1-19; his subjects bring him presents, he has and 11 Chron. 20:32,33. worship is at a practical standstill. It 2. Study the event until you can tell it. riches and honor in abundance. shows that when leadership is wrong, it 3. Memorize these facts about the event: In his third year he embarks on has a great effect on the whole situation. Jehoshaphat succeeds his father Asa something no previous ruler has done-- Wickedness may be in the "driver's seat" as king of Judah. dispatches chosen Levites and priests to and may kill many of God's prophets, but He reacts against Baalism, fortifies go fiom city to city in Judah teaching the God is not dead nor blind to what is several cities, and dispatches Levites law of God. God's law cannot be kept taking place. And He still has a remnant-- and priests to teach God's law unless it is first known. Jas. 1:22 says we people who are not fooled nor in throughout his kingdom. are to be "doers1'of the Word, but "doing" agreement with what is taking place. I Because of God's blessing he has must be preceded by "learning". Thus Jas. Kings 19:18 tells us there are seven peace, riches, and honor. 1:21 first says to receive the Word. As a thousand in Israel who are not bowing result of this divinely-approved program COMMENTS their knees before Baal. One of them is an God causes fear to come on all 'hknown" in Israel at this time, a man neighboring kingdoms so they make no who lives at Tishbeh east of the Jordan o many times after the passing of a war with Jehoshaphat but bring him River--Elijah. He will be well powerful, long-term ruler, the next known presents instead. Such prosperity enables before this is all over! king or two will be looked on as to do much construction and to build In Moses' day God had said to Israel, weak in comparison and will have him a great army. He is truly one of Judah's "Take heed to yourselves, that your heart shorter, unsuccessful reigns. Not so after greatest kings. the death of the great Asa. His son be not deceived, and ye turn aside, and serve other gods, and worship them; and Jehoshaphat is a worthy successor and is QUESTIONS a great king in his own right. It is his trust then the Lord's wrath be kindled against you, and he shut up the heaven, that there in God that will enable him to have such 1. Recite the 3 memory-facts for this event. 2. Why does Jehoshaphat not fail even though following be no rain, and that the land yield not her a successhl reign. God can still make a powerful ruler? fruit" (Deut. 1 1:16,17). In view of this 3. What two kinds of "high places" are there? DIVIDEDKINGDOM HISTORY 27

divine tlircat this man Eli-iah (whose name country4o Zarephatli in Plioenicia. He 3 How great a prophet is Elijah to become? 4 Why Is the king probably not disturbed over Elijali's aptly means "Jehovah is my God") will be in Phoeiiicia until the end of tlie foretelling a drought? believes conditions are such that God drought, ironically sustained in tlie very 5. Where is Elijah's first hideout, and how does God country Boin wliicli Jezebel lias come! provide for him here? should shut off all rain. So he prays that 6 Recall the oonversation between Elijah and the God will, As a result God begins the As lie arrives at Zarepliatli, he sees a Zarephath woman cliasteiiiiig of Israel. woman gathering sticks. He asks her €or 7 What does the woman think when her son dies? God is highly pleased with the a drink, As she goes to get it €or him, lie 8 How does Elijah restore her son to life? calls a€ter lier with an additional request: spiritual depth and concern of this godly 94, €Illah Comer out of Hiding iiiaii, and he calls him into prophetic "Bring me, I pray thee, a morsel of bread and Challenges the Whole Baal sewice, And what a prophet lie becomes in thine hand." It is then she shares lier set-up during his lifetime and later as a desperate plight with the visiting stranger, representative of all the prophets when he Plioenicia, tlie land €rom which Baalisiii ASSIGNMENTS is chosen to appear with Moses and Jesus has come into Israel, is also having tlie at tlie Transfiguration (Luke 9:28-32)! same drought, and it is a real test of lier 1. Read I Kings 18:1-46 and Jas. 5:18. Jolxi the Baptist, €orerunner of Christ, Eaitli when the stranger from Israel says 2, Study the event until you can tell it. would also come in the spirit aiid power concerning her last bit of. flour and oil, 3. Memorize these facts about the event: of Elijah (Luke 1:17), His prophetic "Make nie thereof a little cake first, and a. Elijah is sent back into Israel. assignments will not be of an bring it unto me, and a€ter make €or thee b. He tells Obadiah to report his insignificant nature--he will be sent to the and €or thy son, For thus saitli tlie Lord presence to the king. C. Elijah tells the king to gather Israel ruling kings o€ Israel! God o€Israel, tlie barrel of meal shall not and his prophets upon Mt. Carmei. His first assignment is to go to King waste, neither shall the cruise of oil fail, d. The contest between Jehovah and Ahab and say, "As the Lord God of Israel until tlie day that the Lord sendetli rain Baal by Elijah and the Baal prophets. livetli, before whom I stand, there shall upon the earth." She too can look on e. The people exclaim, "Jehovah, he is not be dew nor rain these years, but Elijah as some ''crackpot", but she takes God," twice. according to my word." He can thus his word seriously, and when God's f. Elijah orders the false prophets slain. speak because he knows he is a prophet promises are daily fulfilled to her, how g. Elijah sends the king home because of God. Even though lie speaks as a happy she is she has believed God's of coming rain. representative of Jehovah and mentions prophet! (Oh, that Ahab had!) It is h. The prophet outruns the king on his "years" without moisture (no dew or interesting to note Jesus mentioned this way to Jezreel. rain), the king is not disturbed. To liim residence of Elijah in her home (Luke COMMENTS tlie ill-clad Elijah is some deranged man 4:25,26). who should never have been admitted by But lier joy in having liim in her home t has been sometime since God lias the guards into his presence. Elijah's and tlie perpetuating of lier food supply is communicated any special suddenly and unexpectedly turned to grief words are taken as idle words with no instructions to Elijah. Sometime reference to the nation's actual future. But when her son becomes deathly sick and I during the third year of this silence, God dies, Conscience has a good memory--you wlien time passes, and there is no rain, the orders liim to go show himself to Icing 1&ig recalls what Elijah lias said, and now will recall Joseph's brothers' conscience Ahab, promising to send rain on the earth. lie will take him into custody if he can bothered them many years later The three and one-half years of no rain €ind him. While the propliet is safely concerning what they had done to liim and no dew have been sufficient to prove (Gen. 42:21). Now the widow's secluded from tlie king's knowledge, he to the people of Israel that the king and conscience bothers lier concerning some seeks €or him even in neighboring queen's god Baal is not the real God wlio unnamed sin in lier past for which she coiuitTies, even making them take oaths controls the weather. He lias given them that Elijali is not in their respective now thinks she is being punished because 110 rain even though they have kept of the prophetic insight of Elijah. The realms. worshiping him, prophet takes the lad's lifeless form to his God is not through using the bold As Elijah bids a thankful farewell to room in the loft and prays €or his prophet, and just as He spares Elijah for the widow mid her son to return to his restoration to life. Again the prophet's future use, so will God spare us for the own land, the king himself is taking half prayer is heard, and the son is given back assignments He has for us yet to €ulfill. of the land and his high official Obadiah to his relieved mother. Elijah's first hideout is in the desolate tlie other hal€, seeking out any possible Brook-Clieritli area, where €ood is QUESTIONS remaining water holes or grass for their brought to him by ravens, and wliere he horses and mules. (This is not the drinks from tlie brook--until it dries up. 1. Recite the 4 memory-facts for this event. Obadiah wlio wrote tlie Bible book.) Next God sends liim clear out of the 2. From where is Elijah? 28 DIVIDEDKINGDOM HISTORY

Obadiah is shocked as he meets Elijah, The Baal prophets feel confident they nation's religious apostasy are taken down who bids him tell the king he is back in can outdo the lone prophet of Jehovah to the brook at the base of the mountain the land, Obadiah is fearful to report this and proceed with preparing their sacrifice (Brook Kishon) and are slain. lest Ahab kill him for letting Elijah get to Baal. Just visualize the whole group of Elijah knows the drought is over and away. In begging not to be sent to the them--and only one Elij ah! But in spite of bids the king eat and drink, "for there is a king, Obadiah asks the prophet if he has their number, in spite of their fanatical sound of abundance of rain." not heard of his having hidden and fed extremes to get Baal's attention to ignite Mt. Carmel is not a mountain peak but one hundred prophets of Jehovah when their sacrifice, Baal does not control a short mountain range running Jezebel was trying to kill them all. things. He cannot send fire. He is no god. northwest-southeast, jutting out into the Realizing the predicament Obadiah could Nothing happens. This failure registers in Mediterranean Sea and putting an end to be in, Elijah assures him if he will report the minds of onlooking Israel. the wide Maritime Plain to its south. To to Ahab, he will appear to Ahab Elijah now invites the people to come its north is the great Bay of Acre with its personally. So Obadiah goes to tell the in as close as they can as he repairs a one- sweeping shoreline. Inland on Carmel's king. time altar to Jehovah, using twelve stones north side and far below is the rich What will be the wicked king's first after the number of the tribes of Israel. Esdraelon Plain, the gateway to the words when he sees the man who over First on the altar goes the wood and then interior from the Mediterranean port. three years ago said, "There shall not be the bullock, and then to everybody's Tour guides take you several miles inland dew nor rain these years, but according to surprise he has twelve barrels of water on the Carmel range to show the my word"? Here are the king's accusing poured over the sacrifice until water traditional place of Elijah's contest with words upon Eljah's entrance: "Art thou stands in the bench around the altar. Then the false prophets. The particular place is he that troubleth Israel?" They are so he prays, "Jehovah God of Abraham, a slight depression so that from it you different fiom Obadiah's frst words: "Art Isaac, and of Israel, let it be known this cannot look west and see the thou that my lord Elijah?" The man from day that thou art God in Israel, and that I Mediterranean. A close study of I Kings Tishbeh is not intimidated by the king nor am thy servant, and that I have done all 18:41-44 indicates the place they show by his words but replies, "I have not these things at thy word. Hear me, 0 you is probably accurate. Let's see. After troubled Israel; but thou, and thy father's Jehovah, hear nie, that this people may killing the prophets down at the base of house, in that ye have forsaken the know that thou art Jehovah God, and that the mountain, Eljah tells Ahab, "Get thee commandments of the Lord, and thou thou hast turned their heart back again." UP, eat and drink." "So Ahab went UP to hast followed Baalim." Without any stretching out of time and eat and drink--that would be back up Now that the prophet whom the king without any fanatical carrying-on by where they had been. But from there it has been seeking is in his presence, why Elijah, God immediately answers this says, Elijah went UP to the top of doesn't he take him into custody? You can lone man's prayer and sends fire that Carmel," and he told his servant to go UP tell that the drought plus the bold reply of ignites and consumes the sacrifice, the now, look toward the sea." All this adds Elijah have subdued any wrathful wood, the stones of the altar, the dust, and up to the fact that the place of the contest intentions Ahab may have had. In fact even the water in the trench! is lower than the summit and from which when Elijah orders him to call Israel Yes, God knew when He called Elijah the crowd could not look west and see the together upon Mt. Carmel along with four out of obscurity back into the lifestream Sea. hundred and fifty Baal prophets and of Israel, the people could now be What is Elijah doing as he casts Jezebel's four hundred prophets of the convinced to declare themselves for himself down to the ground and puts his grove, he obeys even though Jezebel Jehovah and against the king and queen's face between his knees? Praying, rehses to send her prophets. god Baal. As they see the fire come down according to Jas. 5:17,18. His servant What a sight as thousands upon and ignite the sacrifice and the rest that sees no cloud over the Sea until his thousands of Israel gather on Carmel's follows, in spite of the king's presence seventh trip, and it is only "a little cloud" heights near the Mediterranean Sea to see they fall on their faces and declare, said to be "like a man's hand". But it is just what is going to take place! Elijah "Jehovah, he is the God; Jehovah, he is enough for Elijah to tell the king to get speaks to the people: "How long halt ye the God." Was there ever a meeting when into his chariot and speed for home before between two opinions?" What two more people were changed for good than the rain keeps him from getting there. opinions? Which is God--Baal or this meeting on Mt. Cannel? After the king leaves on his hasty trip to Jehovah? Elijah's proposition is fair: "If Elijah issues an order, and the Jezreel, the Lord strengthens Elijah so he Jehovah be God, follow him; but if Baal, powerless king offers no opposition: runs and passes the king in his chariot on then follow him." But the people are "Take the prophets of Baal; let not one of their way to the royal city Jezreel. hesitant to reply but remain silent. them escape." And these four hundred fifty men who have been a part of the QUESTIONS DIVIDED KINGDOMHISTORY

1. Reoite the 8 memory-faots for this event. she will put an end to Elijali's lik) the water, so does God question Eliljah, 2, What are Ah& and Obadiah doing when Elijah returns io Israel? It appears tlie €ears of the prophet are "What doest tliou here?" Elijah's answer 3. Why Is Obadiah hesllanl to tell the king that Elijah the lone reason for his fleeing, The text coiimrning tlie danger involved in staying is back? contains nothing of God's telling liim to in Israel shows be is unduly fearing men 4. What are Ahab's first words when he sees Elijah? 6. What proposition does Elijah make to the people? flee to Mt. Horeb to escape lier wrath, (in this case Jezebel) instead o€ trusting 6. Tell of Baal's prophets' atlempl to get Baal to (You will recall God's directing his going God (note Matt, 10:28), answer by fire. 7 Tell of Elljah's prooedure in getting God to answer to the Brook Cheritli and later to QUESTIONS by fire, Zarepliatli-I Icings 17:2-4 and 7-9,) The a, On which trip to look toward the sea does Elijah's question in Elijah's mind: "Where shall I 1. Recite the 5 memory-facts for this event, servanl see a cloud? 2, What causes to think God does not tell Elijah to Q, Who arrives at Jezreel first--Ahab or Elijah? flee from her?" I-Ie decides on the south, us He and his servant male haste to get out, flee from Jezebel? 3. Tell of the angel and the sleeping Elljah, 97, El&h Flees from Jerebel's They cross tlie border into Judah and 4. What is Elijah's answer to Gods question as to why Threat continue clear to Judah's soutliem border he is olear down here? (Beersheba), Here he leaves his servant ASSIGNMENTS and plunges another day's journey into tlie 9% Elisha-From Plowman to 1 Read I Kings 19:1-18. wilderness (desert) beyond Beersheba. Prophet's Helper 2 , Study the event until you can tell it, Physically and emotionally drained lie is 3. Memorize these facts about the event: at his lowest when he sits in a juniper ASSIGNMENTS a. Jezebel threatens to kill Elijah for tree's shade and requests to die, It is killing the Baal prophets. 1. Read I Kings 19:19-21. b. Elijah and his servant flee to the obvious lie is running on emotions when 2. Study the event until you can tell it. south. he requests to die at tlie very time he is 3, Memorize these facts about the event: c. Elijah leaves his servant at Beersheba fleeing from the wicked queen to keep a. Elijah casts his mantle on Elisha while while he goes farther south. from dying, In this exhausted frame of he is plowing, calling him to become d. He is awakened and fed by an angel, mind he drops off to sleep until he is a prophet. e. Finally settling in a cave at Mt. Sinai awakened by an angel who has food and b. Elisha asks permission to bid goodbye he is asked by the Lord, 'What doest water ready for him. After eating and to those at home. thou here?' feeling safe in the uninhabited desert and c. When Elijah does not approve his going home, Elisha makes a going- with his body crying out for more sleep, away feast out of his oxen. COMMENTS lie is again overcome with drowsiness and is soon asleep once more, When tlie angel COMMENTS pon Ahab's return to Jezreel he again awakens him and bids liim eat in reports the Mt. Cannel view of tlie many days' journey before happenings, especially Elijah's lisha, one of tlie seven thousand him, he does so and then continues his who has not bowed his knee to slaying of tlie Baal prophets. At this point journey to far-away Mt, Horeb. Mt. let us notice tlie difference between Ahab EBaal and the one personally Horeb is Mt. Sinai so sacred to the mind and Jezebel. Because the prophet can call selected by the Lord to succeed Elijah as of every Israelite. No doubt he thinks of his special prophet in Israel, at this time a drought on his land, Ahab did not kill Moses' escaping here from Pharaoh's lkii when he showed himself to him three is plowing in a field near his town Abel- wrath. As he arrives, he likely feels an meholah in the Jordan Valley. As Elijah is and a half years later, In fact tlie king ancestral kinship to this locale because it took orders from the prophet to assemble returning from the deep south to the was here that God spoke to Moses from wilderness of Damascus at God's bidding the people and tlie prophets on Mt. the burning bush, here that Moses Cannel. (But Jezebel did not send lier (I Kings 19:15,16), lie approaches him brought Israel after their escape from who is evidently a responsible son of a prophets of the grove.) Because his own Egypt, here that God spoke to the people prophets could not call down fire on their wealthy €armer. "Barnes" suggests he is and then called Moses up into tlie "the son o€ a wealthy yeoman sacrifice while Elijali could, though he mountain to receive the Law, here that the was king lie ofi'ered no resistance when superintending tlie field-laborers himself tabernacle was made and first set up, and and taking a share in their toils". As such Elijah ordered his prophets killed. We here that the priesthood was begun. note too that Ahab ate at the prophet's he is plowing with the twelfth yoke of As lie takes up his abode in a cave in oxen, tlie other plows preceding his. To direction and also left €or Jezreel at his the mountainous region, he finally feels order. He realizes it was the prophet's call indicate Elisha is being called to go with completely safe Eroni tlie enraged Jezebel. him and be a prophet, Elijah casts his €or rain that brought rain again. (But the In much the same way that Jesus asked hcadstrong Jezebel brushes all these own mantle on him. Later we will find at Peter, "Wherefore didst thou doubt?'' the moment of Elijah's translation his aside, does not fear Jehovah, and vows (Matt. 14:31) when his faith failed liim on 30 DIVIDEDKINGDOM HISTORY mantle will fall from him to Elisha (I1 With Elijah's remonstrance letting him COMMENTS Kings 2:13). We note this future prophet know it is "now or never", Elisha is thus called to divine service while busy immediately returns to his plow and oxen, yria, Israel's neighbor to its north in his own pursuits. God calls busy--not builds a fire with the wood of the plow, and east, is in the heyday of its idle people: Jesus thus called the working makes a departure-feast of roast oxen, Spower, so it is indeed an alarming fishermen (Mark 1:16-20) and the and the other workers share in the situation when Syria's powerful king Ben- working Matthew (Matt. 9:9). Even the occasion prior to his departure to become hadad decides to come against Ahab and mistaken Saul of Tarsus was aggressively a prophet. Matthew also gave a farewell- Samaria. He has with him thirty-two pushing his persecution of Christians feast to which his former fellow-laborers kings and well over one hundred thousand when Christ appeared to him (Acts 26:9- were invited (Luke 5:27-29). When soldiers (a comparison of vs. 25 and 29 18). Elisha does this, he is making a complete shows). The warring mentioned in v. 1 Elisha just has to have a few moments break with farming, "burning his bridges has been so conclusive for Syria that Ben- to decide his future action, and while he behind him" when he burns his plow! In hadad proudly demands Ahab's silver, tarries in consideration, Elijah leaves to leaving everything to follow Elijah, he gold, wives, and children. It is evident continue his journey. Even though there exemplifies what others have done since from Ahab's answer (v. 4) he realizes his are many things to ponder about the who have left houses and lands and loved helplessness before the mighty army. matter, Elisha is able to decide rather ones to preach the gospel (Mark Ben-hadad is pleased with Ahab's hurriedly in favor of accepting the call, so 10:29,30) just as did the fishermen and capitulatian, so he decides to add to his runs after Elijah to accept. Students are Matthew already mentioned. military demands. Not only is Ahab to divided as to whether Elijah is giving him He goes to minister to Elijahjust as deliver him his silver, gold, wives, and permission to go back and tell his parents Joshua did to Moses. This man is now a children, but Ben-hadad will send men to goodbye when he says, "Go back again," servant of Elijah before he later becomes search Ahab's palace and his servants' or whether he is telling him to go back to his successor with Gehazi as his servant houses to see that he has not held his plowing since Elisha stipulates when (I1 Kings 4:12). We must all learn to anything back and to take whatever else he will go with Elijah. As unreasonable as follow before we are entrusted with he desires. it may sound on Elijah's part, his words, leadership ! There is something about this later "What have I done to thee?" seem to fit demand that changes Ahab from a the latter thought better than the former. QUESTIONS submissive vassal into a fighting mad- Don't you perceive some connection 1. What is Elisha doing when Elijah comes along? dog. He calls a meeting of the nation's between Elisha's case here and that of the 2. Is he from a wealthy or a poor family? elders, and they all agree: "Let's fight!" man in Luke 9:61,62 who said, "Lord, I 3. What does he tell Elijah he wants to do before They send a message to Ben-hadad they going with him? will follow thee; but let me first go bid 4. Under what condition will Elijah consent lo his going will not give in to his demands. Enraged, them farewell, which are at home at my with him? Ben-hadad blows up and is ready to wipe 5. What does Elisha do to show he is through with Iiouse," to whom Jesus replied, "No man, farming and will be a prophet? out Samaria. Ahab returns a saucy having put his hand to the plow, and 6. What is his relationship to Elijah? response (probably a proverb of the looking back, is fit for the kingdom of time): "Let not him that girdeth on his God"? To put your hand to the plow and a9. God Gives Ahab Two Great harness boast himself as he that putteth it tlien look back evidently implied quitting Victories over Syria off.'' At this time the Syrian king and the the job. When the agricultural plowman leaders with him are in a drunken state. Elisha said, "Let me, I pray thee, kiss my ASSIGNMENTS They order the army to resume its father and my mother, and then I will fighting lineups and to lay siege to 1. Read I Kings 2O:l-43. follow thee," it suggests his willingness to Samaria. 2. Study the event until you can tell it. go with the prophet Elijah. He is putting 3. Memorize these facts about the event: Ahab has the same small army he had his hand to a new kind of "plow" just as a. Ben-hadad's demands stir Ahab and when he first said he would surrender. the four fishermen were soon to be a Israel to resist. Jehovah knows Ahab is greatly different kind of "fishermen". For some b. God assures Ahab of victory. outnumbered and yet has committed reason Jesus didn't approve the man's c. Syria is defeated, thinking Jehovah is himself to resist. God is going to use this going home to his family before God of the hills. situation to make a personal bid to responding to the opportunity of going d. Syria rebuilds and returns to attack become Ahab's God by giving him a with Jesus, and evidently Elijah is not Israel in the valley. victory over the sizable Syrian army. So approving Elisha's going back to his e. Syria is defeated again. He sends a prophet to Ahab telling him family either. f. God is displeased with Ahab for He is going to give him such a victory sparing Ben-hadad. that he will know that He is Jehovah. DIVIDEDKINGDOM HISTORY 31

Ahab asks by whom Jehovah will doliver we luiow (and Ben-hadad will find out) What is Ben-hadad's next niovc to be? such a great multitude into his hand. The there is but one God, and He is His servants tell him tlie kings of Israel answer: by your own young men! And everywliere, Of course Ben-liadad likes have a reputation for being iiiercifid to when Ahab asks who is to order or lead the message of his advisors, and he lays those they have conquered, so he sends tlie battle, God says Aliab himself is! plans for tlie next attack. But simply his servants clothed with sackcloth and No doubt Aliab is surprised Jehovah is because a person likes what lie hears docs with ropes on their heads (signs of sorrow having anything to do with him, but he is not iiecessarily make it true, and submission) to Ahab with a plea for pleased (this is Elijah's God!), and he It is obvious to the Bible student Ben- his life, Ahab is surprised Ben-hadad is cooperates with what God's prophet has liadad will also lose tlie next battle since still alive, supposing he has been killed said, It is a small number that Ahab lias it will be fought on such a fallacious either in the battle or by tlie falling wall, (two liundred fifty young princes and thought concerning Israel's God, When When he refers to Ben-hadad as "iiiy seven thousand soldiers) compared with Goliath defied the armies of the living brother", they hurry back to him with tlie tlie number in the opposing amy, Ben- God and cursed God's servant David in assurance eveqhing is going to be all hadad and the fiftytwo leaders are even the name of his gods (I Sam, 17:26,43), right. This time Ben-hadad comes in more drunk by the time the Israelite amy the loss went to Goliath and tlie win to person, and Ahab invites him up into his coines €or tlie battle. Ben-hadad orders David (I Sam. 17:45-53). When royal chariot, Vanquished but spared, his inen to take tlie Israelites alive Seiuiaclierib's messenger compared Ben-liadad offers to restore tlie cities his whether they are coming out to surrender Jehovah to tlie idolatrous gods of other fatlier took from Israel and to give Ahab or to fight, But not realizing God is with nations which Assyria had already permission to make streets (probably Israel, Ben-hadad is totally surprised defeated (I1 Kings 18:31-35), God streets with Jewish mercliaiil s selling wheii Israel's small force completely routs immediately took hold and wiped out his Jewish merchandise) in Damascus his vast army, He is not so druilk he can't army (I1 Kings 19:lS-23,3537). We have (Syria's capital city). Ahab feels good get on a horse and make a hurried escape a right to look for tlie same in the coining over the two victories and because Syria into nearby fortified Aphek. God's giving battle , has come to terms with him. But has lie Israel's small army a great victory over Now back to tlie rematch of Syria and handled the Ben-hadad matter correctly? such odds reminds us of His reducing Israel. The scene is near Aphek. There are Is God pleased? We shall see. Gideon's army to a mere three hundred several Apheks in Ahab's territory. Some God intended Ahab to have finished before giving it the victory over the take this to be tlie Aphek just east of the off Ben-hadad. Ahab is like the neighbor countless Midianites so the victors would Sea of Galilee, but it seems more likely to ("his fellow" ASV) of tlie solis of the know it was God who gave them the be the Aphek in tlie Valley of Jezreel, prophets wlio is coinnianded by the Lord victory (Judg. 7:2). Remember too the which would be nearer tlie location of the to smite him, who refuses and is killed by words of Jonathan to his armor-bearer first battle and in a famous battle valley. a lion for liis disobedience. Aliab should when the two were about to attack the , If they are walling by ''sight'' rather be like the next man who strikes and whole. Philistine garrison: "There is no than by "faith", Israel will not enter the wounds tlie son of tlie prophets at God's restraint to tlie Lord to save by many or battle, for Israel is like "two little flocks command and who lives as a result. The by few" (I Sam, 14:6). of kids" while tlie Syrians fill tlie country. wounded young man departs in a It has been a long time since Jehovah God is watching and again sends a disguised way with God's message for tlie has had any harmonious coiitact with any prophet to Aliab with this message: "Thus king. king of the Northern Kingdom until this saitli the Lord, Because the Syrians have Parabolically the niessenger of God is battle, Now that He lias given Ahab this said, The Lord is God of the hills, but he represented as a soldier who confesses to victory, He follows up with sending the is not God of the valleys, therefore will I the passing king he has allowed a prophet back to him to tell him to expect deliver all this great multitude into thine prisoner committed to his care to escape. Ben-badad to remobilize and return hand, and ye shall know that I am tlie At this point the young prophet removes against him at the turn of the year. And Lord." This brings joy to the heart of liis disguise, and Ahab recognizes he is riglit the prophet's message is, for up in Aliab, and he has never had a victory like face to €ace with a messenger of Jehovah Damascus Ben-liadad's advisors are the one coming up: (1) one hundred wlio says, "Thus saith tlie Lord, Because telling him Israel's gods are gods of the thousand Syrians are killed in one day; thou hast let go out of tliy hand a nian hills, and that if he will take an equal size (2) the rest of the Syrians (twenty-seveii whom I appointed to utter destruction, army, replace the kings with captains, and thousand) flee into Aphek only to have a therefore tliy life shall go for his life, and fight against Israel in some valley, the big wall collapse on them and kill them; thy people for his people." When Aliab outcome will be a victory for Syria. It is and (3) Ben-hadad hides in an inner- shows mercy to Ben-liadad to God's obvious his advisors subscribe to the chamber in Aphek. displeasure, it is just as wrong to disobey heathen idea of localized gods whereas this command as it is to hate when God 32 DIVIDEDKINGDOM HISTORY ~~ says to forgive. Some people's natures e are again back at the elders and nobles to proclaim a fast (as make it easier for them to execute God's beautiful city of Jezreel built though some calamity were facing the city judgment than to practice His mercy on an eminence overlooking the responsibility for which would while the natures of other individuals thevv fertile Jezreel Valley. The city is evidently be laid on the innocent and make it easier for them to show mercy twenty-five miles north of the capital harmless Naboth). Reminiscent of the than to execute divine judgment. As Samaria. Ahab has a palace here too rigged trial of Jesus Jezebel has her false obedient servants of the Lord we should (likely a vacation-capital, making it a witnesses present (described by the strive to fit into God's plans whether it be royal resort-city). The last time we were inspired writer of I Kings as "sons of to bring offenders face to face with their here was immediately following Elijah's Belial"--no-goods). And what is the disobedience or whether to forgive contest on Mt. Camel. It was from here charge brought against the bewildered transgressions done against us. that he fled fiom the murderous intentions vineyard owner who is the victim of this What will the king's response be to of an inflamed Jezebel. greed and intrigue? "Thou didst such a parabolic approach (so similar to A good man Naboth lives here, and his blaspheme God and the king!" Not one the prophet Nathan's approach to King vineyard is immediately adjacent to word of Naboth's at his trial is recorded, David over the Bathsheba-Uriah matter- Ahab's palace. The king wants to obtain but we can well imagine his asking, I1 Sam.12:l-12)? Like David (I1 Sam. it so he can make it into an herb garden. "What? When? Where? What did I say?" 12:13) Ahab is submissive and heavy- He offers either to buy it or give Naboth But any personal appeal he makes is hearted. a vineyard in exchange. We should note it swept aside by the court that has been is not customary for an Israelite to sell his called together to get rid of him. And it is QUESTIONS land unless debts and unfortunate made to look honorable by having the

1. Recite the 6 memory-facts for this lesson. circumstances force him to do so. This minimum of two witnesses testify against 2. What is Ben-hadad's first demand of Ahab? keeps one's patrimony within his family. him (Deut. 17:6). Poor Naboth is 3. What is his second demand? The background of this is in Lev. 25:23- condemned to death by stoning outside 4. What message does God send to Ahab? 5. What do Benixdad's advisors tell him about Israel's 28. Normally a plot of land that is sold the city. Jezebel has kept her word--she God? will still revert to the original Israelite has gotten rid of Naboth whose property 6. What message does God send to Ahab before the second battle? family at the year of jubilee (every fiftieth now passes to the king whom Naboth 7. What two things befall the men of Ben-hadad's year). However since Jezreel is a royal allegedly wronged (compare I1 Sam. army? city and has walls, the teaching in Lev. 16:4), 8. What terms of surrender does Ahab accept from Ben-hadad? 25:29,30 implies if Naboth sells his Ahab loses no time taking possession 9. What has God planned for Ahab to do with Ben- vineyard to Ahab, it will be lost to his of the prized vineyard. What a sinner he hadad? family forever. So principle causes is before God! He has killed a righteous Naboth to reply to the king's proposal, man, has allowed his wife to overthrow Ahab Takes a Righteous 30, "The Lord forbid it me, that I should give justice, and has been heartless toward the Man's Vineyard the inheritance of my fathers unto thee." family of Naboth, robbing them of their ASSIGNMENTS It is not customary for a king not to family head and "bread winner" and now have what he wants, but Ahab has to taking away even their vineyard. 1. Read I Kings 21:i-29. respect Naboth's right of possession. The Unprincipled people such as Ahab and 2. Study the event until you can tell it. extent of his disappointment is apparent Jezebel will get what they want no matter 3. Memorize these facts about the event: as we see him go into the palace, flop how they get it. If they cannot obtain it Ahab offers to buy Naboth's vineyard himself across his bed with his face to the honestly and honorably, they will get it next to his palace. wall, and refuse to eat. When the dishonestly and dishonorably. And they He is saddened by Naboth's refusal to unprincipled Jezebel comes in, she says to won't worry over the grief and sorrow sell. her sobbing husband, "Dost thou now they bring to their victims, for in their Jezebel arranges for Naboth to be govern the kingdom of Israel?" falsely charged, condemned, and selfishness they have no heart for those killed, permitting Naboth's vineyard to suggestingthat a king can do whatever he they hurt. become Ahab's. wishes and have whatever he wants. To When we see the way Naboth's case Elijah meets Ahab in the vineyard and her, "might is right" instead of "right is goes, we can see that a day of divine pronounces doom on both him and might". In essence she is saying, "I will judgment is necessary to repay the wicked Jezebel. get the vineyard for you!" And she goes and reward the righteous. out and devises the scheme that will get Will Ahab get away with this? Num. COMMENTS rid of Naboth and embolden Ahab to take 32:23 says people's sins will find them over the vineyard. In the king's name and out. While King Ahab is walking around sealed with his seal Jezebel orders the through his newly acquired vineyard, no DIVIDED KINGDOM HISTORY 33

doubt making plans €or its use now that it prophet lias said will be Eullilled exactly. surprised Jelioshaphat yokes up with such is lis, he is stuiuied to look up and see tlie Psa 5 1:17 says God will not despise a a wicked king, €or Jehosliaphat is one oE steni prophet Elijah coining toward him, broken aiid coiitritc bearl, Because Ahab the good kings while Ahab is the worst. God's servants often show up at the most humbles hiinsell' beEore God and His This alliance is tlie one glaring weakness embarrassing moments (when one is Word, God tells Elijah the doom of Jelioshaphat lias amid many great ligliting a cigarette, when people are Ahab's house will take place after his strengths lie possesses. Sometimes even having ai argument, eta), Ahab cries out, death and not during liis liEetiiiie, good people have a besetting sin, "Hast thou found me, 0 mine eneiiiy?" One of the results oE this alliance is iiidicating immediate admission of liis QUESTIONS Jelioshapliat takes Aliab's daughter guilt, His elation over obtaining the 1. Reolte the 4 memory-facts for this event. Athaliah as a wife €or his son Jehoram vineyard is now suddenly turned to fear 2. In what oily does this event lake plaoe? who will succeed him, Other results as he knows Jehovah's prophet has come 3. What does Nabolli have thal Ahab wants? coming up will be Jehoshaphat going to 4. What use does Ahab have for It? because of what lie has done, Why does 6. What brings sorrow lo Ahab in the matter? war with Ahab in the battle €or Ramotli- Ahab consider Elijah his %nemy"? 6. Whal does Jezebel find Ahab doing? gilead. Then after Ahab's death 7. What does she promise him? Jehosliapliat will build a fleet oE ships Because Elijah is always against the evil 8, Tell how she goes about fulfilling her promise? he does4or the same reason Ahab hates Q, Where Is Ahab when Elijah comes to him? with Ahab's son Ahaziah at tlie pod of the prophet Micaiah (I Kings 22:8), IO, What does Ahab say the moment he sees Elllah? Ezion-geber, Still later lie will go to war 11, What does Elljah foretell ooncernlng Ahab's house? Compare John 7:7 aid Gal, 4: 16, There is 12, What wlll happen to Jezebel? against Moab in company with Ahab's nothing wrong with the prophet, the full 13, How does Ahab respond to (he prediotion? grandson Jeliorani, And then responsibility belonging to the sinning 14, When will the doom fall? Jehosliaphatls grandson Ahaziah and king, Rebuking preaching has not made Ahab's grandson Jelioram will be the best 31, Jehoshaphat Makes Peace oEfiiends, will go to war together against Elijah popular with the king, "Correction with Ahab is grievous unto him that forsaketli the Ramoth-gilead, and will die together at way'' (Prov, 15 : 10). While the thoughtful ASSIGNMENTS the hand of Jehu. So the peace and the honest will accept correction, Jelioshaphat and Ahab make is real and others woii't, and when they don't, they 1, Read I Kings 22:44 and II Chron, 18:l. will be lasting, But God is not pleased usually employ vengeful tactics against 2, Study the event until you can tell It. with it as we shall see in coming events, the one who is correcting them. This is 3. Memorize these facts about the event: We will also see that much evil will get why fow preachers bring rebuking a. Jehoshaphat makes peace with Ahab inb the life oE Judah though this aEfInity mess ages. that lasts for a long time and that Is between the two ruling houses. Just as Twice in our lesson text is Aliab's bad for Judah. God said back in Deut. 7:3,4 that when selling himself to do evil mentioned (vs. b, it Is probably done to combine their the righteous marry the wicked, it has its strength against the rising power of sad effects. 20,25), God lias been 1ongsuEferiiig long Syria. enough with him and with the hateful QUESTIONS woman who lias stirred him up to his COMMENTS wickedness. Elijah tells him of tlie doom 1. Reolte the 2 memory-faots for this event. that will come on him and his house 2. When does Jehoshaphat make peace with Ahab? or so many studies now we have 3. Probably why does he make this peace? (which Ahab understands to be the end of been following the events in the 4. Why are we surprised that this peace Is made? his Eamily on tlie throne when Elijali FNorthern Kingdom involving King refers to the annihilation of the previous Ahab and events involving the prophet 38, The Condemned Ahab Cannot houses of Jeroboani and Baasha). And Elijah that we need to check in and see Escape Gods Judgment how gruesome punishment the king hears what is taking place with King concerning his wife Jezebel and his Jehoshapliat and his Southern Kingdom. ASSIGNMENTS offspring: "The dogs shall eat Jezebel by Zet us remember he is the son of Asa who tlie wall oE Jezreel, Him that dieth of ruled over Judah for so long. He is a good 1. Read I Kings 22:l-40 and II Chron. 18:l- Ahab in the city the dogs shall eat; and ltiiig and is enjoying a prosperous reign 34. him that dieth in the field shall the fowls 2. Study the event until you can tell it. also, 3, Memorize these facts about the event: of the air eat.'' We are not told just when Jehoshaphat Again the king is docile before the a. Ahab invites Jehoshaphat to join him makes peace with Ahab nor why. It is In recovering Ramoth-gllead from witherjng words of the prophet. He rends probably to combine their strength Syria. his clothes, puts on sackcloth, fasts, lies against the rising power oE Syria b. Ahab's prophets promise him victory. t in sacltcloth, and goes softly. He has (Damascus the capital) in the event o€ an c. Micaiah prophesies his defeat and every reason to believe that what the attack. For whatever the reason we are death. 34 DIVIDEDKINGDOM HISTORY

d. The circumstances of Ahab's fatal two kings as they sit on thrones just messenger of God is concerned with one wound indicate God's role in it. inside Samaria's entrance gate, Are you responsibility as a prophet, replying, "As e. Dogs lick UP Ahab's blood just as surprised Ahab has this many prophets the Lord liveth, what the Lord saith unto dogs did Naboth's. when so recently Elijah slew so many of me, that will I speak." Such faithfulness his prophets near Mt. Carmel (I Kings has always characterized God's true COMMENTS 18:40)? The slain prophets were prophets messengers. John 3:34 says, "He whom of Baal while these are possibly general God hath sent speaketh the words of O1lowing his second and decisive prophets. "Barnes" observes that among God." One is not a true messenger of God defeat by Ahab and Israel, Ben- the ancients their prophets were not so if he preaches something besides God's Fhadad Of had a@eed to much mouthpieces for their gods as Word so as to please his listeners (Gal. restore to Israel the cities his father had persons thought to have power with their 1:9,lO). taken 'Om them (I Kings 20:34)*We are gods to induce them to do what they As Micaiah arrives on the scene, it not just which cities they were, but pronounce. Naturally, then, they will say could be an overwhelming situation for those cities Of Israel east Of the Jordan what the king wants, so they unite in one not so firmly committed to being a were from time to time by Israel, saying, "Go up; for the Lord shall deliver true prophet, for there are the two kings then by and then by Israel again, it into the hand of the king." This is music on their thrones, and there is a crowd of those were the cities to the ears of the king, but Jehoshaphat prophets (around four hundred) led by in promise*One Of the chief discounts what they say because, as Zedekiah's assuring antics, all Of these cities is Ramoth-glead*It is near "Smith" notes, they do not say as true prophesying victory. But truth and the center Of the land Occupied by Israelfs prophets of Jehovah, "Thus saith righteousness are not always two and Onemhalftribes east Of the Jehovah." He, therefore, asks, "Is there demonstrated by numbers. Micaiah is (look it up On a map)* It is One Of the not here a prophet of the Lord ("Jehovah" outnumbered about four hundred to one, cities to the Levites ASV) besides, that we might enquire of yet he is right and they wrong. Noah and (Num. 35:7; Josh. 21:38), and Its him?" his family were likewise outnumbered in prominence among many cities is The only Jehovah-prophets Ahab their day, and so were Caleb and Joshua. Seen in its being the refuge knows about are Elijah (and he would Jesus noted, "Wide is the gate, and broad east Of the Jordan (Josh*20:277,8)* Even have to know Elijah's whereabouts in is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and though it has now been three years since order to consult him "today"-- many there be which go in thereat: Ben-hadad promised to restore these Jehoshaphat's request in v. 5) and because strait is the gate, and narrow is cities, the 'Wortant Ramoth-@leadis Micaiah (whom he hates), His words the way, which leadeth unto life, and few in his hands* After the presswe Of the concerning Micaiah ("I hate him; for he there be that find it" (Matt. 7: 13,14). time passed, he is like pharaoh doth not prophesy good concerning me") Now comes the king's question, "Shall promise to let Israel go if Moses remind us of Jesus! words in John 7:7 we go against Ramoth-gilead to battle, or but remove the pia@e, but after ("The world cannot hate you; but me it shall we forbear?" Everything is quiet the plague was lifted he hardened his hateth, because I testify of it, that the awaiting his answer. There is irony in heart and did not keep his word works thereof are evil") and of Paul's Micaiah's answer ("Go, and prosper: for 8:28-32). human nature make words in Gal, 4;16 ("Am I become your the Lord shall deliver it into the hand of promises to God in days Of that enemy, because I tell you the truth?"). the king"), and Ahab detects it (v. 16). are not carried Out in days Of While Micaiah is being sent for, and And now comes forth the real prediction prosperity. the two kings are in their royal robes on from God when Micaiah says, "I saw all It is Jehoshaphat Of is thrones just inside the entrance gate of Israel scattered upon the hills, as sheep paying Of a visit Samaria, one of Ahab's prophets that have not a shepherd: and the Lord (with much chron. 18:2) that (Zedekiah) is leading the other prophets said, these have no master: let them return Ahab his in going to war in quite a "pep rally" before the two every man to his house in peace." Ahab against in Order to recover Ramoth- kings. He acts as if he is a strong animal gets the idea (he is the shepherd who is no dead.The I1 chron* indicates with horns, assuring Ahab he will "push longer with the sheep, and the sheep are Ahab has to persuade Jehoshaphat to the Syrians, until thou have consumed his leaderless army), for he turns to assist him in the Jehoshaphat them." And all the prophets come in, "Go Jehoshaphat and says, "Did I not tell thee commits his men and horses to the project up to Ramoth-dead, and prosper: for the that he would prophesy no good but asks that they inquire Of Jehovah Lord shall deliver it into the king's hand." concerning me, but evil?" before proceeding* His request is As the messenger calls Micaiah, he Micaiah resumes speaking . and supposedly honored when four urges him to join the other prophets in explains why Ahab's prophets actually cowt-prophets before the prophesying success. But the faithful prophesied victory: God wants Ahab to DIVIDED KINGDOMHISTORY 35

fall, so He has put a lying spirit into the eveiytliing he can to save hiinsel€ from time o€ Elijah's prophecy Ahab was mouths of all Ahab's prophets who the doom pronounced against him. But scheduled €or a peaceful death with the promise victory €or him, This will draw when God marks a persoii for destruct ion predicted calamities coming on his family Ahab into the battle where lie will be because of unrepeiited sin, no amount of later, But because of Ahab's run-in with slain The smart, show-of€ Zedekiah human ingenuity can overthrow His God's prophet Micaiah, God decided walks over to Micaiah, smites him on the pronouncement, You can be sure this is Ahab's new sin should bring its own cheek, and scoffingly asks, "Wliicli way Ahab's last. How will this be brought punisluiient-a violent death, Thus, lie went tlie Spirit of the Lord from me to about? dies in €~fillmeiitoE Micaiah's propliecy, speak unto thee?" Momentarily and in tlie It appears from the Biblical account and dogs still lick up his blood according setting it loola like Zedekiah is tlie that some Syrian soldier just shoots an to Elijah's propliecy eveii though it is at triumphant one, and Micaiah is not to be arrow at random, not aiming at anylliing Saiiiaria instead o€ Jezreel. intimidated by a prophet, a king, or a or anybody, but that very arrow finds its throng, so he predicts trouble €or the way between the joints o€ Ahab's armor, QUESTIONS demonstrative Zedekiah: "Behold, thou severely wounding him. Hoping against 1. Reoite the 5 memory-facts for this event shalt see in that day, when thou shalt go hope Aliab courageously props himself 2. What promise does Ben-hadad not keep? into an inner chamber to hide thyselfq"It up in tlie chariot all day throughout tlie 3. What oily does Ahab really want back7 4. Whom does he persuade to help him? is always bad to resist God's messengers. battle. But at evening tlie king who has 5, AI whose insistence do they call In prophets? Ask King Jeroboam (I Icings 13:4), led Israel €or twenty-two years finally 6. How many prophets of Ahab are called in? 7. What IS the gist of their message? Amaziah (Amos 7:16,17), Hananiah (Jer. succumbs, breathes his last, and dies in 8, Who is not altogether pleased in the matter? 28: 12-17), Jehoialtirn (Jer. 36:20-23,27- the chariot. His death brings a 9, Why does Ahab not want to summon Mioaiah? 3 l),and others, proclamation that ends the fighting, and IO. WhaJ do Zedekiah and the prophets do while they wait for Mioaiah to come? The king wants no more of Micaiali's the Syrians retain Ramotli-gilead. 11. What does the messenger tell Mloaiah? prophecies, so he orders him returned to Ahab's chariot is a mess with his 12. What does Mioaiah say to him? blood all over its floor. His dead body is 13. What does Mloaiah foresee in the coming battle? jail and prescribes a bread-and-water diet 14. Tell of Zedekiah's smartness with Mioaiah for him until lie can deal with him on liis sorrowfidly hauled back to tlie capital city 15. What does Mioaiah say back to him? return from the battle. When the king €or entombment, Since Samaria is a new 16. What order does Ahab give concerning Mioaiah? 17. What are Micaiah's parting words to Ahab? says, "Until I come in peace," Micaiah city, beginning with his father Omri, 18. What IS Syria's battle-plan? replies, "If thou return at all in peace, the Ahab is only tlie second king buried there. 19. What seeming honor does Ahab give to Lord hath not spoken by me," and he bids There will be many more in the future, o€ Jehoshaphat? 20. When does Syria quit shooting at Jehoshaphat? the people to take note of his statement. course. As the servants scrub out liis 21 What brings about the wounding of Ahab? We are left wondering just why bloody chariot, scavenger dogs are 22. When does he die? Jehoshaphat asks for a prophet of present to lick up his blood, reminding us 23. When do dogs lick up Ahab's blood? Jehovah and still will go to battle with of tlie dogs at Jezreel that licked up 33. Jehoshaphat is Rebuked for Ahab when doom has been prophesied. Nabotli's blood. Helping Ahab Maybe the pressure that does not A problem may arise in your mind overwhelm Micaiali does overwhelm over the place where dogs licked up ASSIGNMENTS Jehosliaplrat, for not all who intend to Ahab's blood, Elijah told him, according serve God have equal courage. to I Kings 21: 19, "Thus saith the Lord, in 1. Read I/ Chron. 19:l-3. The battleplan of Syria is to kill King tlie place where dogs licked up tlie blood 2. Study the event until you can tell it. Ahab and not fight with anybody else. o€NaboOi shall dogs lick thy blood, even 3. Memorize these facts about the event: Word of this has leaked out to Ahab but thine." That would be Jezreel and not a. The prophet Hanani reproves not to Jelioshaphat. There€ore, Ahab Samaria where it happens (I Kings Jehoshaphat for going to battle with doesn't want to direct the battle himself 22:38). There is one Scripture that may Ahab. but will enter the battle attired as one of take care of tlie problem. When Ahab b, He also commends Jehoshaphat for the soldiers while hypocritically o€fering repented after hearing Elijah's rebuke and his good points. pronouncement o€ doom on him and his the glory of leading the battle to COMMENTS Jehoshaphat. As the battle opens, from house (I Kings 21:19-24,27), God said He would defer tlie punishment until after what the bownien say as they shoot at e cannot help wondering about Jehoshaphat it is evident they think lie is Ahab's death (I Kings 21:28,29). Jelioshaphat's thoughts as he Evidently it was God's intention to Ahab, and Jehoshaphat cries out he is not makes his way back to destroy Ahab, Jezebel, and all his W Ahab, For a while that stops the shooting Jerusaleni following the defeat at o€fspring at once, and Ahab would be in until they can locate Ahab. But Ahab is Rainoth-gilead. At the begiiuiing of the not to be identified. He is doing Jezreel where Nabotli had lived. So at the 36 DIVIDEDKINGDOM HISTORY battle he was actually near death himself ow that Ahab is dead, the North n order to insure that every man's case when the Syrians were shooting at him. will have a new ruler. Who will receives a just hearing, Jehoshaphat His friend (?)Ahab, who had put him up N he be, and what will he be like? Iplaces judges in each of Judah's as the "target" instead of himself, is now No aspirant-to-the-throne takes fortified cities. This was a point on which dead, and Micaiah's prophecy has come advantage of the sudden and unexpected Absalom criticized his father David's true (Israel's army is without a shepherd). death of Ahab to seize the throne, but his government and used it for his own Jehoshaphat is bound to have some son Ahaziah is made the next king. ambitious ends (I1 Sam. 15:2,3). misgivings about the whole matter, Is the Jehoshaphat of the South is now in the Knowing every judge should respect matter ended now that the battle is over? seventeenth year of his twenty-five year the law of the land, the right of each A prophet Jehu, son of Hanani, who reign. innocent individual before the law, and in his younger years rebuked King Baasha What parents are is often reproduced the penalty to be placed on each violator of the North for his wickedness (I Kings in their children, for often children "learn of the law, Jehoshaphat charges his 16:14), is now summoned in his older what they live". With a father and mother appointees with these words: "Take heed years to intercept Jehoshaphat of the like Ahaziah has had (Ahab and Jezebel), what ye do; for ye judge not for man, but South and first rebuke him ("Shouldest we are not surprised that he is an evil for the Lord, who is with you in the thou help the ungodly, and love them that ruler also, worshiping Baal and judgment." And he goes on to warn them hate the Lord? therefore is wrath upon perpetuating Jeroboamls long-staiding about having respect of persons in their thee from before the Lord''-referring to calf-worship. So God's efforts to gain the judgments, and he also warns them about his having helped Ahab) and then allegiance and worship of the North by accepting bribes, which is in harmony encourage him ("Nevertheless there are giving Ahab two significant victories over with the law of God in Lev. 19:15 ("Ye good things in thee, in that thou hast Syria are not realized as neither he nor his shall do no unrighteousness in judgment: taken away the groves out of the land, and son Ahaziah turn back to thou shalt not respect the person of the hast prepared thine heart to seek God"). Jehovah-worship. And iiot every effort poor, nor honour the person of the It is interestingto know that this same we put forth to turn individuals from sin mighty: but in righteousness shalt thou prophet Jehu will write a biography of to righteousness will succeed either, but judge thy neighbour"). Taking bribes was King Jehoshaphat (I1 Chron. 20:34). we should continue trying just as God did. one of the sins of Samuel's sons: "They Upon his return to Jerusalem Moab's rebelling against being were judges in Beersheba. And his sons Jehoshaphat labors to bring all his people tributary to Israel comes with the death of walked not in his ways, but turned aside (from Beersheba in the south and Mt. the powerful Ahab. Ahaziah will not after lucre, and took bribes, and perverted Ephraim in the north) back to God. attempt to regain control over Moab, but judgment" (I Sam 8:2,3). And the same his successor will. thing happened in Amos's day: "I know QUESTIONS your manifold transgressions, and your QUESTIONS 1. Recite the 2 memory-facts for this event. mighty sins: they afflict the just, they take 2. Jehoshaphat is returning to Jerusalem from where? 1. Recite the 2 memory-facts for this event. a bribe, and they turn aside the poor in the 3. Who meets him? 2. What event brings Ahaziah to the throne of Israel? gate from their right" (Amos 5:12). 4. Where have we come across this prophet earlier? 3. In what year of his reign is Jehoshaphat when At the same time that Jehoshaphat 5. What words of encouragement does he also have Ahaziah begins to reign? for him? 4. How is Ahaziah's evil described? establishes judges in all his major cities, 6. What does the king endeavor to do for the people 5. What nation successfully rebels against Israel during from Beersheba to Mount Ephraim? he also establishes somewhat of a Ahaziah's reign? "supreme court" in Jerusalem for handling more serious cases and those 34, Ahaziah is Israel's New King 35. Jehoshaphat Reforms His involving technical interpretations of the Judicial System ASSIGNMENTS law. Commenting on v. 11 "Clarke" says, ASSIGNMENTS "Here was a two-fold jurisdiction, 1. Read I Kings 2251-53 and II Kings 1:l. ecclesiastical and civil: in the 2. Study the event until you can tell it. 1. Read II Chron 195-11. ecclesiastical court Amariah the 3. Memorize these facts about the event: 2. Study the event until you can tell it. high-priest was supreme judge; in the a. He perpetuates both Jeroboam's 3. Memorize these facts about the event: civil court Zebadiah was supreme." It is calf-worship and Ahab's Baal-worship. a. Jehoshaphat places judges in all his evident the Levites will fill an important b. Moab rebels against Israel in his fortified cities. reign. place in this new national court. b. He establishes a special set of judges We might observe it is just such wise in Jerusalem. COMMENTS and righteous moves as this by King Jehoshaphat that please,. God, bring: His COMMENTS blessings on him, and make him the DIVIDEDKINGDOM HISTORY 37 great ruler lie is, Prov, 29:4 says, "The This great joint-army is already at Engedi destroy the Edomites, and then turned king by judgment establisheth the land: on the west side o€ tlie Dead Sea in upon each other. 'I but he that receivetli gifts (takes bribes) Jelioshaphat's own domain when he learns When Jelioshaphat, his army, and tlie overlhroweth it," "The throne is about their coming, singers arrive on the scene, the ground is established by righteousiiess" (Prov, Fortunate indeed is a people whose covered with thc dead bodies of Judali's 16:12), ruler is in touch with God, King would-be invaders, Since these ancient Jehoshaphat sets himself to seek tlie warriors have proudly worn much of their QUESTIONS Lord, proclaims a national €ast, and wealth on their persons, Judah strips the 1. Recite the 2 memory-facts for this event, gathers people f?om Judah's various cities slain o€ everything of value (compare I 2, What does Jehcshaphat establish in all his forlified at Jerusalem to seek God, and lie himsell7 Sam. 31:8), There is so much it actually cities? stands it1 the midst o€them in a new court takes Judah thee days gather all the 3 What oharge does he give them? to 4, What does he establish in Jerusalem? o€ the temple and prays a great prayer. spoil to carry home with them, But before 5 What kind of cases will Amariah handle? The Lord loses no time in assuring returning to Jerusalem they hold a great 6. What kind will Zebadiah? Jelioshaphat and the people that He will praise service, and the place €rom take care of their enemy. One of the men henceforth will be known to people as 36, God Gives Jehoshaphat Victory over a Powerful Coalition of the group (Jahaziel) is given the "Berachah", which means "Blessing", As inspired message that .Judali will not even they joyfully make the trip back to ASSIGNMENTS have to figlit, He says, "The baffle is not Jerusalem, the king heads the procession, yours, but God's..,Ye shall not need to What music of psalteries, harps, and 1. Read II Chron. 2O:l-30, fight in this battle: set yourselves, stand trumpets as the procession ends at the 2. Study the event until you can tell it. ye still, and see the salvation of the Lord temple where they had held their great 3. Memorize these facts about the event: with you ...Tomorrow go out against them: prayer meeting before departing for the a. A great coalition of armies invades for the Lord will be with you," These battle they never had to fight! Just as Judah. words are very similar to those spoken by these do not forget the special blessing b. Jehoshaphat calls a great fast and Moses when the Egyptians pursued them God has given them, even so we should prayer meeting at Jerusalem. before they had crossed the Red Sea out never fail to thank God for the special c. God sends an ambushment among the opposing armies causing them to ofEgypt (Exo. 14:13,14). blessings He pours out upon us. destroy each other. We can but imagine tlie thrill that Word of all this so spreads that "the d, Judah praises God for such a victory. comes to the hearts of the king and his €ear of God was on a11 the kingdoms of worshiping subjects as they hear this those countries ...so the realm of COMMENTS wonderful promise. Oh, how the Levites Jehoshaphat was quiet ... God gave him do praise God with strong voices! There rest round about." This happens much as powerful coalition composed of is not a doubt in their minds, and God Solomon has written: "When a man's Moab, Ammon, and Edom is will not fail them nor His Word. ways please the Lord, he rnaketh even his Aconspiring against Jelioshaphat. In the morning as they leave Jerusalem enemies to be at peace with him" (Prov. These are all ancient enemies of Israel. and go toward Eiigedi where the great 16:7). The nations of Moab and Ammoii are army is, Jehoshaphat urges the people, descendants of Lot's incestuous union "Believe in the Lord your God, so shall ye QUESTIONS with his daughters after their escape €rom be established; believe his prophets, so 1. Recite the 4 memory-facts for this event. the burning Sodom. Though distantly shall ye prosper." He also has singers 2. What three nations come against Judah? preceding the army, and hear them sing, 3 Where is their great army when Jehcshaphat learns related to the Israelites through of their Intentions? Abrahani's father Terah, they have "Praise the Lord; for his mercy endureth 4. What does this cause Jehoshaphat to do? constantly been at odds with Israel. Edom for ever." Various times the Old 5. What message does God send through Jahaziel? Testament shows God intervening in the 6. What group praises the Lord with loud voices? is a nation of Esau's descendants, and the 7. Whom does Jehoshaphat have preceding the army as ill-will set up over Jacob's obtaining affairs of men to work out everything they leave for Engedi? Esau's birthright and blessing has after tlie counsel of His own will such as 8. Tell of the way God gives Judah victory. 0. How long does it take Judah to strip the valuables contiiiued through the centuries in the He does here. "Barnes" considers the from the dead soldiers' bodies? hearts of their descendants. divinely appointed ambuslment to be 10. What happens at Berachah? Moab and Ammon occupy the country angels, and it is very likely true. He says, 11. Where does the victory procession end? "These liers in wait have been regarded as east and south of the land allotted to the The Royal Fleet is Destroyed angels employed by God to confuse the 37, two and oiiehalf tribes of Israel living before Leaving Harbor east of tlie Jordan while Edom occupies host and cause its destruction, so that the the land directly south of the Dead Sea. Moabites and Ainmonites first united to ASSIGNMENTS 3% DIVIDEDKINGDOM HISTORY

1. Read II Chron. 20:35-37 and I Kings To build the kind of ships and the d. A third band and its captain beg for 22:47-49. amount of ships Jehoshaphat wants is mercy and are spared. 2. Study the event until you can tell it. quite an undertaking, SO he and King e. Elijah personally tells the king he will 3. Memorize these facts about the event: Ahazi& of the ~~rthcombine in the not recover, and he doesn't. a. Jehoshaphat and Ahaziah build a fleet venture. But because Ahaziah is so of ships at Ezion-geber. COMMENTS b. Because God is displeased with wicked, God is again displeased that Ah%iahls participation in it, the fleet is Jehoshaphat has allied himself with him, haziah's reign seems to be one destroyed before it can leave the so He $ends the prophet E1iezer to calamity after another: (1) harbor. prophesy doom on their fleet of brand During his reign Moab refuses to c. When Jehoshaphat rebuilds the fleet, new ships. After all the time and expense A he does so without Ahaziah's help. and work that have been expended be tributary; (2) The fleet he and . building these great sea-going vessels, Jehoshaphat build at Ezion-geber is COMMENTS our text says, "They went not; for the destroyed; (3) And now he has had a ships were broken at Ezion-geber." What terrible fall down through some efore the kingdom of Solomon breaks them in Ezion-geber harbor? The lattiWwork from his upper chamber, and divided, he utilized two great most obvious and probable is a great his condition is gave*He in Only the ports: JoPPa for his storm that dashes the ships to pieces. second year of his reign. Mediterranean trade (I1 Chron. 2: 16) and Our Biblical amunt is very brief, but He summons messengers to his Ezion-geber on the Red Sea for his other the details in 1 Kings 22149 (the verse bedside and dispatches them to EhOn~a trade (I Kings 9:26). They were his dertelling ofthe fleet's destruction) has Of the to consult its god gateways to the outside world. Special led most scholars to think Jehoshaphat, He hopes to Obtain a message mention is made in our text that Edom now understanding why the first fleet was from him that he will get well. We has no khg at this the-only a deputy (a destroyed and still desiring to have wonder why he doesn't his subservient ruler). It appears that with vessels on the sea, reslmes the idol-prophets. Some think Baalzebub of Jehoshaphat's victory Over the ship-building but refuses to have Ekron is known for predicting favorable Moab-Ammon-Edom coalition, he is the Ahazi& have any part of it, This appears fortunes. one who has taken over Edom. Edom is a likely, indicating Jehoshaphat has If you think God has given you nmOw strip of land running from the accepted the wrongfulness of his earlier nothing but thankless assignments to Dead Sea on the north to an amof the project and is desirous of doing it right perform, think of Elijah whose job it Red Sea on the south. Ezion-geber is the this time, seems is always to deliver bad news to great port city on this arm of the Red Sea. kings of the North. We haven't seen Since Jehoshaphat is contemplating doing QUESTIONS Elijah for sometime, but here he comes again. An angel of God sends him to the thing did in 1 Recite the 3 memory-facts for this event intercept these messengers of the king. He great ships to go to Ophir for gold, it is 2 Where IS Ezton-geber? evident God has blessed him with 3 Since it IS not in Judah, why can Jehoshaphat does not introduce himself to them but make use of its harbor? asks them if it isn't because there is no Or he cowldn't be doing this. 4 What item from Ophtr 1s he wanting? NOWthat he appears to Control Edom, he 5. what mistake does he make in building the ships? God in the Kingdom that they can make use ofthis great port, Ophir is 6 How does he Pay for hls mistake' are being sent to Ekron. After he tells 7 How do we know he has learned his lesson? a place €amow for its gold (I Kinas 9:28: them to tell their king, "Thus saith the Lord, Thou shalt not come down from IChron. 29:4; I1 Chron. 9:lO; Job28:161 has a Run-in '€I*King that bed on which thou art gone up, but Psa. 45:9; etc.) and is far to the south on with Elijah Arabia's western shore. "Tarshish" is shalt surely die," they turn around and both mentioned as a place of trade ASS IGNM ENTS return to Samaria with the message. (thought to be "Tarsessus" of Spain at the Surprised they have gotten back so western-most point of the ancient world) 1. Read I1 Kings 1:2-18. soon, the king is incensed with the and also as designating the kind of ships 2. Study the event until you can tell it. message they bring. He inquires being built (probably large, rugged 3. Memorize these facts about the event: concerning the man who sends the vessels that could make such prolonged a. King Ahaziah is seriously injured from message. Just as soon as they begin sea journeys). (Do you remember when falling out of his upper chamber. describing the man's looks and clothing, b. Elijah sends word to him that he will he says, "It is Elijah the Tishbite," and he Jonah was running from God's call, he not recover. boarded a ship at Joppa for Tarshish-Jon. dispatches a captain with fifty soldiers to c. Two bands and their captains are find him and take him into custody. The 1:3?) destroyed when Ahaziah sends them to take Elijah. detachment stands at the base of the hill DIVIDEDKINGDOM HISTORY 39 on wliicli Elijah is resting. Tlie captain says to tlie lung, "Forasmuch as thou hast nation, Though it will be Jehu who will orders, "Thou man of God, the king hatli sent messengers to enquire oE Baalzebub later exterminate Baal-worship from said, Come down." Since he refers to the Uie god ol'Elcron, is it not because there is Israel, God still talces notice that this Icing prophet as a "man of God", Elijah says, no God in Israel to enquire of his word? takes some stand against it in that lie puts "If I be a mail of God, then let lire come therefore thou shalt not come down off "away the image of Baal that his father dowi f?om heaven, and coiisuine thee and that bed on which thou art gone up, but had made", Even though he is not good thy fi€ty,I' And immediately God sends shalt surely die." And lie dies, Thus otherwise, God takes notice of and gives fire that destroys them. Elijali's calling comes to an end this son of Ahab and him credit for doing this good, down fire on his enemies will be well Jezebel, the third king of the Orivi But he is still listed as "evil" because laiown among the Jews for generations to dynasty and tlie eiglitli king of tlie he continues tlie calf-worship so long ago come, €or when a Sainaritan village Northem Kingdom, instituted by the fist king of the Northern refused to allow Jesus and His disciples Kingdom, When we see tlie way to stay overnight, tlie sons of Zebedee QUESTIONS Jeroboam's calf-worship lives on, we said, "Lord, wilt thou that we conmand 1. Recite the 5 memory-facts for this event. cannot help saying, "Oh, that he had fire to come dowi Eroni heaven, and 2. Name three calamities that hit Ahaziah during his started something goodl" brief reign. consume them even as Elias did?" (Luke 3. To what god does Ahaziah send messengers to QUESTIONS 9:54)* inquire about his prospects of recovering? How does Elijah know about these messengers? One would think Elijah's previous 4. 1. Recite the 2 memory-facts for this event. 5. What question and what verdict does Elijah send to 2, Who is the new king of Israel? victory over Ahab and the four liundred the king Via his messengers? 3. What relation Is he to his predecessor? What surprises Ahaziah about his messengers' fiity prophets of Baal on Mt. Camel and 6. 4. Why doesn't a son of Ahaziah follow him to the return? now tlis destruction of Ahaziah's captain throne of Israel? 7, What displeases the king about their message to 6. Is the new king labeled good or evil? aid soldiers at his hand would cause the him? 6. What is his evil? How do the messengers desoribe Elijah? king to drop tlie matter, realizing he 8. 7. In what way is the new king better than his father7 9. Where is Elljah when Ahaziah's soldiers find him? cannot fight against the prophet's verdict IO. What does the captain say to him? involving his death. But no, the king 11. What does Elijah say to him? 40, Elisha Sees Elijah Translated sends out a second captain with a second 12. And what happens to the oaptqin and his men? 13. How many such captains and their men does set of fifty soldiers. Tlie captain says the Ahaziah send to take Elijah? ASSIGNMENTS same thing, Elijah replies in the same 14. Tell of the last captain's different approach. 15. What does Elijah say to the king in person? 1. Read II Kings 2:l-18. way, and tlie same fate befalls this 16. What happens to king Ahaziah? captain and his men. 2. Study the event until you can tell it. It is obvious the lives of a king's 3. Memorize these facts about the event: 39, Another Son of Ahab a. Elisha refuses to be apart from the soldiers are very cheap and mean very Becemes King In the North traveling Elijah. little to him when Ahaziali sends out yet b. The Jordan divides before them as a third captain and another fifty inen. ASSIGNMENTS they cross to the east side. How would you like to be that third c. Elisha requests a double porkion of captain or one of his soldiers? It looks 1, Read II Kings 3;1-3, Elijah's spirit. like "curtains" for them too, except this 2. Study the event until you can tell it, d. Elijah is taken up to heaven. captain tries a niore humble approach to 3, Memorize these facts about the event: e. The Jordan also divides at Elisha's the prophet-in-touch-with-God. First lie a. Jehoram succeeds hls brother as king command. in the North. pleads for lis own li€e and for the lives of f. The sons of the prophets go on a b. He puts away his father's image of futile search for Elijah's body. his soldiers: "0man of God, I pray thee, Baal but continues Jeroboam's let my life, and the life of these fifty thy calf-worship. COMMENTS servants, be precious in thy sight." His attitude and appeal are honored when the COMMENTS he hiehas drawi near for Elij ah's angel spealcs to Elijah, "Go down witli earthly labors to end. He and him: be not afraid of him," And lie gets t is custoinaiy for a Icing's son to Elisha are together at Gilgal where down and walks witli the group to the T follow him to the throne, but since he bids Elisha remain while lie hiinself bedside of the ailing king, It is IAhaziah has no son (I1 I(ings 1:17), goes to Bethel. Froin what we read later, iioteworlliy Elijah is just as courageous in his brother Jehoram becomes his we conclude Elisha knows Elijali will be his message in the actual presence oftlie successor. He too is a son of Ahab and takeii from him swn, so he does not want king as lie has been when merely sending Jezebel. Tlie fact that lie is not as evil as to be left behind. He treasures every a message to him by his Ekron-bound lis father and his mother recalls the gross precious hour with him who has been a messengers, for at tlie king's bedside lie evil of their inany years heading the 40 DIVIDEDKINGDOM HISTORY spiritual "father1' to him. In going to As soon as they are east of the river, God is with him, for the waters of the Bethel Elijah may be wanting to see the Elijah bids his successor ask what he Jordan again open, and he crosses to the sons of the prophets of this place before should do for him before he is taken from west side. departing. God has revealed to the Bethel him. Elisha loses no time in replying: "Let This has been quite a day for the sons young men that God will take Elijah away a double portion of thy spirit be upon of the prophets: They have seen Elijah this vey day. When they speak of it to me." What is meant by a "double smite the Jordan, have seen him ascend, Elisha, he says he also knows it but asks portion"? Many commentators take the and have now seen Elisha smite the them not to talk about it. It is an position exemplified in "Barnes Notes" as Jordan. They concur among themselves, emotional matter with Elisha. follows: "The 'double portion' is that "The spirit of Elijah doth rest on Elisha," Elisha also refuses to be left behind at which denotes the proportion of a father's and they go forth to meet and bow Bethel but accompanies the older prophet property which was the right of an eldest themselves before their new superior. down to Jericho, affirming again the son (Deut. 21: 17). Elisha therefore asked They form quite a group in themselves double oath, "As the Lord liveth, and as for twice as much of Elijah's spirit as (fifty strong young men). Though not as thy soul liveth, I will not leave thee." By should be inherited by any other of the close to the dramatic ascension as Elisha, his thus putting both "As the Lord liveth" 'sons of the prophets'.'' Others hold the they have nevertheless witnessed it from and "ASthy soul liveth" in the same oath, view he is asking for a double portion of their spot west of the Jordan. The big it makes a strong argument for the the Spirit Elijah himself has. In your question in their minds now is, What has doctrine of human immortality like God's writer's judgment the remark made by happened to Elijah since he was taken up? immortality. Elijah ("Thou hast asked a hard thing") They fear the Spirit of the Lord who took The sons of the prophets here at favors the latter position. Obtaining the him away may have cast him on one of Jericho approach Elisha with the same requested blessing will be conditioned on the Gilead mountains on the east side of information as have those at Bethel, and Elisha's getting to see Elijah taken away. the Jordan. My mind struggles to figure he likewise asks them not to be talking The two push ahead, talking as they out the nature of their thinking. Are they about it, Just why Elijah keeps speaking go. Suddenly a chariot of fire pulled by wanting to go look for Elijah himself or to Elisha about remaining behind at all horses of fire appears, and the alder for his body? If for Elijah himself, then these places is not clear. If he really wants prophet is immediately taken up into they are not conceiving the translation him to remain, Elisha is surely disobeying heaven by a whirlwind. What is that that has taken place. Elijah would still be his orders. Or is he testing him to see if falling back to the ground? It is Elijah's alive over there, and they want to go see he will accept being separated from him mantle. And Elisha sees him taken! His him. But why would God do anything to at this time? Or does Elijah want to be request will be granted! As Elisha sees harm Elijah? On the other hand maybe psychologically bolstered by Elisha's him go, he exclaims about Elijah, "My they understand the separation of body continued affirmation that he will not be father, my father, the chariot of Israel, and spirit when one leaves this life, They apart from him until he is gone? and the horsemen thereof." This could have understood, for Solomon had As the two prophets head for the remarkable appellation so fittingly stated already written Eccl. 12:7 ("Then shall Jordan, the young Jericho prophets situate about Elijah will later be stated by a king the dust return to the earth as it was: and themselves so they can keep the older about Elisha also when he is on his the spirit shall return unto God who gave prophets in view (probably from an deathbed (I1 Kings 13:14). it"), I think they know he has been caught eminence), Elijah the Tishbite is a native We can imagine the sorrow Elisha up to heaven but suppose his body has of Tishbeh (on the east side of the feels as he sees his dear leader suddenly been deposited somewhere in those bleak Jordan). He is going to the east side for snatched from him never to be with him mountains east of the Jordan. his departure, Here the unusual again. Standing with his clothes rent, Elisha considers it a fruitless journey experience of not dying but being emblematic of the sorrow he feels, reality and discourages their going. But the basis transported to heaven awaits him. Instead comes home to him (his master has been of their concern for the unburied body of of crossing the Jordan at the ford where taken away from him). Seeing the mantle one whom they have respected so highly travelers customarily do, they come to the lying on the ground and realizing his reflects the Jewish concept of the historic river where there is no ford and request will be honored, he picks up that calamity of being unburied. Listen: "If a no bridge. Taking his mantle Elijah rolls mantle that was earlier cast on him when man beget an hundred children, and live it into a long, club-like object and swings he was plowing and that had parted the many years, so that the days of his years it down upon the surface of the water, and Jordan when in Elijah's hand. Eager to see be many, and his soul be not filled with the river opens a passageway so the two the spirit of Elijah manifested through good, and also that he have no burial; I can walk across the river bed even him, he goes directly to the Jordan and say, that an untimely birth is better than without getting muddy feet! smites the Jordan with the mantle, saying, he" (Eccl, 6:3). They cannot stand not "Where is the Lord God of Elijah?" His going to look for the body. Realizing it is DlViDED KINGDOMHISTORY 41

not a moral issue Elisha indulges their Moses represents tlie godly deceased at a, Jericho sends for Elisha because of concern and pennits them to go. Fifty the time of Cbrist's coming and Elijah Its spring, men seeking for three days uncovers no those wlio will be transjated when 1% b, He comes and heals the spring, trace of the body. Now satisfied lie has comes, (4) Are you aware that tlie Old not been cast on one o€the mountains in Testament's last two verses contain a COMMENTS that wild terrain, they reltuli lo Elisha at prophecy that God would send "Elijah" Jericho, Janies Smith iii his commentary be€ore the coming o€ the great and ravelers to Jericho today find it an on I and I1 Kings explains EIisha's dreadful day of the Lord (Mal, 4:5,6)? oasis city in tlie midst of a vast, statement, "Did I not say unto you, Go This is why some Jews asked John the Tunbelievable arid desert, Luxuriant not?" from the standpoint that Elisha's Baptist if lie was Elijah (John 1:21) and vegetation, delicious fnrit, and beautiful knowledge of the situation was being why some thought Jesus was Elijah blossoins greet the traveler as lie enters wrongfully called in question by tliein, (Matt, 16:13,14), It is reported that Jericho. Has it always been this way? So we indeed do say goodbye to the Jewish families at their passover meals Evidently, for "Jericho" means "place of great prophet Elijah, He is gone, He is no leave an empty chair €or Elijali, The angel fragrance", and your writer has never longer a part of this world, Elisha, told Zacharias that his son Jolm tlie been anywhere that the fragrance in the blessed with a double portion of his Baptist would go before tlie Lord "in the air is so pronounced as in Jericho. No spirit, will take over4 spirit and power" of Elijah (Luke 1:17), wonder tlie elders of tlie city said, "The Before passing on into our history this and though John himself did not realize situation of this city is pleasant, 'I side of Elijah, let us share some final lie was fulfilling the "Elijah" prophecy, Everything of beauty and productivity considerations about him, (1) The brevity Jesus said he was tlie fulfillment (Matt. at Jericho is traceable to its great spring of the Bible's coverage of Elijah robs us 17:12,13; 11:13,14), In Elijah's and John of water issuing forth as a flowing stream of a full personality-picture of the the Baptist's rebuking sins (even their at the base of the mound that was the prophet, It appears to this writer lie can kings' sins) together with the solitary Jericho of Joshua's day, Our text says €or be quite a non-emotional person. manner of their lives, they are strikingly some reason the great spring that has Indications:even though he lias been with similar, (5) Just as God's name is been such a blessing lias now become a Elisha several years and knows he is associated with Abraham, Isaac and problem, The King James reading, "The going to be taken away, he would leave Jacob (e.g. Exo. 3:6), even so does God's water is naught, and the ground barren," Elisha at algal, at Bethel, and at Jericho, name get associated with Elijali (our sounds as if it has dried up while other and when he leaves he shares no parting text), and if we are obedient to Him, He translations say, "The water is bad, and itlstructions nor "God bless you" but only will also be our God (Rev,21:7)1 the land miscarrieth" (American a business-like offer, "What shall I do for Standard); "The waters are bad, and the thee, before I be taken away from thee?" QUESTi ONS earth sterile" (Young's Literal). We can see the situation is grave, and the elders Nor is there any "Farewell" or "Goodbye" 1. Reolte the 6 memory-facts for this event, falling from his lips as lie departs. 2. At what three cities west of the Jordan does Elijah of Jericho who Elisha has seek to leave Elisha? succeeded Eliiah seek his helm UDon his However, when Jas. 5:17 says he was a IA 3. What knowledge do the Sons Of the prophets have arrival he requests two things: a brand man of "like passions as we are", when about Eiijah? we see liim fleeing from Jezebel, and 4. Does Elisha already know it? new vessel and salt in it, In no way would when we see him discouraged in the cave 6. Who wa!oh as the two great prophets go to salt be a natural cure for their spring (see Jordan? 9:45), so at Mt, Sinai, it may be that the above 6, How do they get to the east side of Ihe river? Deut, 29:23 and Judg. the conclusion should be modified. (2) The 7. What request does Elisha make of Elljah? prophet's using such unlikely means 8. On what condition WIII the request be fulfilled? demolistrates that the cue is indeed a unusualness o€ his translation without 0. Tell of Elljah's translatlon dying is seen in the fact that only Enoch 10. How does Elisha gel baok aoross the Jordan? liliracle-which is what they had in 11. what do the sons-of the prophets want to do? mind in sending for him. In recognition of before him and nobody since him has ever 12, What do they find on thelr searoh? experienced what lie did. (3) Jesus' Elisha's great miracle at this spring, the meeting with liim and Moses in the Jericho citizens today refer -to it as 41, The City Of Jericho Asks iiElishais F~~~~~~~II, Transfiguration is usually interpreted as Elisha's Help Moses representing the Law and Elijah QUESTIONS the prophets. I€ so, his being chosen to ASSIGNMENTS represent the prophets testifies to how I. Reolte the 2 memory-faots for this evenl. 1. Read II Kings 2:19-22. 2. What problem arises at Jericho? great lie was, Some scholars see 3. Who sends for Elisha? 2' Study the event until you can it' something else in these two men at the "" 4, How does he proceed to heal the spring? Transfiguration. Since these appear "in 3. Memorize these facts about the event: glory" with Chist (Luke 9:3 l), they think 42 DIVIDEDKINGDOM HISTORY

42. A Bethel Kid=Gang Mocks with laughter as they say, "Go up,..go b. Elisha promises both water for the armies and victory over Moab. Elirha up * It It is too bad many youngsters are c. Thinking the armies have killed each ASSIGNMENTS given to making fun of people's other, the Moabites are surprised unfortunate situations. Adults may talk when they come to strip the dead. 1. Read II Kings 2:23-25. d. The king of Moab offers his son as a about others behind their backs, but sacrifice. 2. Study the event until you can tell it. children spare no feelings-they say what 3. Memorize these facts about the event: a. Forty-two Bethel young people ridicule they want to say in the presence of or to COMMENTS the person involved in their "fun" Elisha. I b. They are torn by two she-bears. (making fun of their crossed eyes, here is a relationship between v. 5 crooked feet, or whatever else they can ("When Ahab was dead...the king COMMENTS find to mock or mimic). Again parentally Tof Moab rebelled against the king be sure your child or children are taught it of Israel") and I1 Kings 1: 1 ("Then Moab his section shows Elisha "on the ismuch better for them to be normal and rebelled against Israel after the death of move", which is somewhat to thank God for it than to make fun of Ahab"). The rebellion likely occurred at Tcharacteristic of him. The various those who are less fortunate. the time of I1 Kings 1: 1 when Ahab's events recorded of him happen at a But the Bethel young people's laughter successor Ahaziah took over, but it is not number of different places. In this study is soon turned to fright as two she-bears until our present event under Jehoram that alone we see him going from Jericho come out of the woods upon them. A Israel is able to do anything about it. (where he has healed the spring) to Bethel mother bear can be so very vicious (see Mention is made of the great flocks of (where the golden calves are located), and Prov. 17:12 and I1 Sam. 17:8). For only sheep of the king of Moab. This country fi-om Bethel to Mt. Cannel (where Elijah two bears to tare forty-two youngsters is east of the Jordan and the Dead Sea is had his contest with the Baal-prophets), evidently traceable to their accomplishing great land for livestock pasture (Num. and from Mt. Cannel to Samaria (where Elisha's curse on them. Neither our 32:1-5). For sometime before the death of the Northern Kingdom kings rule). English word "tare" nor the Hebrew word Ahab, Moab chafed under the yearly As he is nearing idolatrous Bethel, he from which it is translated throws any tribute it had to pay to Israel (one hundred runs into a kid-gang that is up to no specific light on whether the bears thousand lambs and one thousand rams good. Observation generally teaches us to actually killed them or seriously injured along with the rams' wool for that year). beware of "gangs", be they animals or them. Since they are the recipients of a The death of Ahab opened the door for kids. For instance, your pet dog may curse, we would think the bears have had Moab's throwing off that yoke, evidently normally be a nice dog, but he may show the mastery over them and killed them. indicating Ahaziah's inexperience would another side if he gets in with a gang of On the other hand, if they are not killed, be no match for Mesha and the Moabites. dogs. And the same is true of children. such a brutal attack is to them a grim How successful has Mesha's revolt Under these conditions more often than manifestation of Jehovah's serious been during the two years of Ahaziah's not, it seems, the bad comes out instead displeasure with them. reign? Mesha tells his own story of it on of the good. Therefore, as parents it is what Archaeology calls the "Moabite QUESTIONS considered wise to keep your Stone" found back in 1868 and now in the childchildren at home in free time or with 1. Recite the 2 memory-facts for this event. Louvre at Paris. Chiseled into it is this selected playmates than to have hider a 2. List the thtee places named in this event where we information: "I, Mesha, king of Moab, see Elisha. part of some gang. 3. Who meets him as he nears Bethel? made this monument to Chemosh These may know he is Elisha the 4. What do they say to him? [Moab's god] to commemorate prophet of Jehovah, or to them he may be 5. How does Elisha respond to their action? 6. What befalls them? deliverance fiom Israel. My father reigned just some bald-headed man about to enter over Moab thirty years, and I reigned their town. The following will probably 43. God Giver Victory through after my father. Qmri, king of Israel, show they do recognize him as the Elisha oppressed Moab many days and his son prophet aRer Elijah. When they mock him after him [Ahab], But I warred against the and say, "Go up, thou bald head; go up, ASSIGNMENTS king of Israel, and drove him out, and thou bald head," they are not only making took his cities, Medeba, Ataroth, Neb0 fun of his shiny head but are probably 1. Read II Kings 34-27, and Jahaz [cities east of the Jordan], making fun of the report that has reached 2. Study the event until you can tell it. which he built while he waged war Bethel-that Elijah was taken up to 3. Memorize these facts about the event: against me. I destroyed his cities, and heaven in a whirlwind. Hear them roar a. Jehoshaphat agrees to go with devoted the spoil to Chemosh, and the Jehoram to put down Moab's rebellion. women and girls to Ashtar. I built Qorhah DIVIDED KINGDOMHISTORY ~ 43 with prisoners from Israel, In Beth- ways people react when calamities arise. This is evident when he says to Jehoram, Diblathaini, J placed sheep-raisers, '' Jelioram represents the class that faints "What have I to do with thee? Get thee to Our present event is Israel's "reply" to and falls apart while Jelioshaphat the prophets of thy father, and to the that rebellion, This is too niucli annual represents tlie class that loolcs to the Lord prophets of tliy mother,,,As the Lord of tribute to forego, The present power of in prayer and faith, Jesus' parable of the hosts livetli, be€ore whom I stand, surely, Moab is evidenced in Jehoram's raising a unjust judge (Luke 18: 12-8) was taught were it not that J regard the presence of sizable amy out of tlie Northern King- "that men ought always to pray, and not Jelioshaphat the king of Judah, I would doni and getting additional armies from €aint" (1 8:1). Paul had many adversities, not look toward thee, nor see thee," And Judah and Edom, but he said, "We faint not" (I1 Cor, 4: l), Jelioram evidently respects his evaluation One wonders why Jehoshaphat agrees A verse that helps your writer is that by his silence, to go on any other project involving a chiding thought in Prov. 24 : 10: "If thou Elislia's only request is that a minstrel lciiig of Israel since God rebuked liim €or faint in tlie day of adversity, tliy strength come and play music. The request is going to war with Aliab at Ramoth-gilead is small." The part that faith in God granted, and inspiration came to him with (I1 Cluon. 19:2) and destroyed tlie ships plays in such times is brought out in Psa, tlis message: "Thus saitli the Lord, make he and Ahaziah built at Ezion-geber (I1 27:13: "I had fainted, unless I had be- this valley full of ditches, For thus saith Clwon. 20:35.37), "Smith" thinks since lieved to see the goodness of the LORD tlie Lord, ye shall not see wind, neither Judah has recently experienced a threat- in the land of the living,'I shall ye see rain; yet that valley shall be ened invasion by Moab and its helpers (I1 Jehoshapliat inquires if there be a filled with water, that ye may drink, both Chron, 20:1 ff), Jelioshaphat is willing to prophet of Jehovah somewhere among ye, and yo~rcattle, and yow beasts. And help against Moab not so much with tlie them, Unbeknown to tlie kings tlie this is but a light thing in the sight of the idea of helping Israel as in the interests of prophet Elisha has been traveling with Lord: lie will deliver tlie Moabites also his own kingdom, them (likely divinely dispatched €or tl& into you hand," after which they will The question comes up as to which occasion). When this long-time servant smite every €eliced city and choice place, way should they take to Moab. Look at a of the great Elijah is reported among cut down Moab's good trees, €ill up their map of Bible lands, and you will see they theni, Jehoshaphat is happy, saying, "The wells, and tlrow tlie stones back on to the either must cross tlie Jordan and then go word of the Lord is with him! I' Although field that they had cleared of them. south along the east side of tlie Dead Sea neither Elijah nor Elisha are what you To ask if God will be able to twn to enter Moab from the north or go soutli would call Southern Kingdom prophets, death and defeat into such a victory is to along the west side of the Dead Sea, enter this king of Judah knows about them. So answer it. The next morning water comes the land of Edom, and then come against desperate are tlie three kings and so much from Edom into the valley, filling their Moab from the south. Jehoshapliat respect do they hold for the prophet that ditches with water for them to drink and recommended the western route and at- they do not summon him to them but go also to set the stage for Moab's defeat. tacking Moab from the south. This is to liim instead, What an honor for the Even today great rains in these highlands probably recommended from three prophet who began as one who ''poured can send big streams of water suddenly considerations: (1) Edom being subject to water on tlie hands of Elijah" (v. 11) but into the dry desert valley many iniles Judah at this time can be enlisted to join now has kings coming to him. Well, below, which apparently God does here. hem; (2) Moab is less fortified against an "before honour is humility" (Prov. 16:18), The position of the Moabite army is attack froni the south; and (3) Their and before Jesus was "highly exalted" and such that when tlie sun rises and casts its troop-movement will not be detected as given a "name which is above every light on the water-filled ditches, the water early. name", He "humbled himself, and became looks red (like the light of a rising sun It is evident they have not sent any obedient unto death, even the death of the reflected from windows). History has scouts ahead, or they would have returned cross" (Phil. 2:8-10). We are taught to recorded times when coalition armies with a report of a lack of drinking water. humble ourselves under the mighty hand developed trouble among theniselves, and In time, therefore, they find themselves in of God with the assurance He will exalt the different segments ended up fighting a real plight-a lack of water both for the us in due time (I Pet. 5:6). There is each other. This did happen to tlie animals (brought along for meat) and tlie nothing wrong with starting at the bottom Moabite-Ammonite-Edomite coalition in armies. This has happened after they have and through work and God's blessing 11 Chron. 20:22-24. So when Mesha sees been joined by the king of Edom (v. 10). rising to places of leadership whether it this "blood-like" water, he concludes this Jelioram of Israel evidently is of the be in the occupational world or in the lias happened among his would-be "quitter" variety, for lie is sure the camp- cliLlrc11. attackers, and lie is glad, resulting in the aign will end in sure defeat (v. 10). But As Elisha beholds tlie kings, he lias a joyous battle-cry in the Moabite camp, Jehoshapliat's spirit is not so quickly character evaluation of both the wicked "Moab to the spoil!" As they rush over broken, These two kings illustrate the two Jehoram and the righteous Jehoshaphat. supposedly to strip the dead of their 44 DIVIDEDKINGDOM HISTORY

treasures, was ever an army so surprised 3. Memorize these facts about the event: do in 1 Pet. 5:7 (''Casting all your care as when Moab finds all their enemies a. A widow comes to Elisha with her upon him, for he for YOU^^), SO alive and ready to do battle for the problem. many cases have been observed of God's unsuspecting, unorganized Moabites? b. She is told to borrow many turning people's desperation into blessing Hastily they retreat with the western, vessels and fill them by pouring into that it is a well known saying, "Man's them from her one vessel of oil. victorious armies in hot pursuit. Thus the c. By selling the oil she is able to pay exb-emity is God's opportunity.'' The tide prophesying of Elisha not only comes her debt and have money to live on. Will turn now that she has brought her true but has been the divine means of problem to the man of God. God delights giving the victory. COMMENTS in being good to those who put their trust In the final stages of the conflict in Him and who thank Him for what He Mesha chooses seven hundred choice men 0th in the Old Testament (Deut. does for them. and seeks to break through just to kill the 14:28,29; Deut. 24:19-21) and Elisha instructs her to go to her king of Edom (probably because he has Bthe New Testament (Jas, 1:27) neighbors and borrow empty vessels. He been a former ally and is now a part of his God has shown a deep concern for Says, "BOflOw not a few"-get many of opposition). But he is not succeeding, so widows those who are victims of them! He tells her that when she obtains in desperation he takes his eldest son (the chcmtances, ~nfie present event we are them that with her sons being with her in heir to his throne) and offers him to his not surprised God moves Elisha to the privacy of their Own dwelling, she is god Chemosh as a burnt offering. We perfom a special miracle to relieve a to POW oil out of her vessel into these and today are shocked at this human sacrifice, desperate widow of a situation that will to keep POhg the bO~~~wedvessds but such was occasionally done among otherwise ruin her life, until they are all full. She does this, and the heathen of those times. She is evidently no stranger to Elisha, when the last Vessel iS full, what a thrill to With the Moabite rebellion put down her deceased husband having been one of this needy to see SO much valuable Israel returns to its land, and the two the sons of the prophets who has had a Oil in their little house! And they know it years of freedom from paying tribute to close connection with Elisha (11 Kings iS theirs because Of a miracle of God Israel that Moab had enjoyed under 2:15). Also she says to him, q-hou performed in their behalf. Their gloom Ahaziah now make the returning to this knowest that thy servant [her husband] has given Way to gladness as they send payment all the more bitter ("And there did fear the Lord." word to Elisha. was great indignation against Israel"). Her husbmd had borrowed some His inStlUCtiOn now is, "GO, Sell the money but had died before getting it paid oil, and Pay thy debt, and live thou and QUESTIONS back, Devoting oneself to God's service thy children Of the rest." In one miracle I. Recite the 4 memory-facts for this issue. does not mean great financial gain God has taken care of their Present 2. After whose death does Moab rebel from paying therefrom as Seen in the case under problem and has also provided for their tribute to Israel? 3. Who is king of Moab at this time? consideration, in the fact that the sons of future. The Cannow stay together, 4. What tribute has Moab been paying? the prophets did not so much as own an and they know God is indeed good and 5. What king proposes bringing Moab back under his ax (I1 Kings 6:4,5), in Jesus' case (Matt, that His eye is upon the righteous (1 Pet. yoke? 6. What king of Judah agrees to help him? 8:18-20), and in Peter's case (Acts 3:2-6). 3:12). 7. What other king joins them? Her husband's death itself has been a 8. Which way do they choose to go to attack MOab? QUESTIONS 9. What calamity arises? great blow, but now the creditor comes to IO. What prophet is among them? collect the money. She doesn't have it. In i Recite the 3 memory-faots for this event 11. How does he speak to the king of Israel? Bible days creditors had the right to sell a 2. What has happened to this Woman's husband? 12. What job does Elisha tell them to do? 3 Who was he? 13. What does he promise will happen? PerSon to Collect a debt (Matt. 18125). 4 Dld Elisha know hlm7 14. What fools the king of Moab in Ihe morning? The grief-stricken widow now faces the 5. Tell of the great problem she has 15. What does he think has happened? possible loss of her two sons to the 16. What happens when Moab comes to take the spoil? iRz ~~cl~li~~~~l,",","~ 1; :::house7 17. With which king is the king of Moab specifically creditor. This will Hot Only multiply her 8 What 2 uses will there be for all this 0117 angry? domestic grief but rob her of her future 18. What does the king of Moab do in desperation? provision through them. 45, Elisha's Special Room at 44, Elisha Solves a Widow's She goes to the prophet Elisha, Shunem Serious Problem reminding him of the faithfulness of her husband to the Lord. When he inquires as ASSIGNMENTS ASSIGNMENTS to what she might have in her house, she 1. Read I1 Kings 4:8-17. mentions Only a pot Of Oil ('live Oil, used 2. Study the event until you can tell it. 1. Read I1 Kings 4:l-7. for sommyp~osesin days)*She 3. Memorize these facts about the event: 2. Study the event until you can tell it. has done what we Christians are taught to DIVIDEDKINGDOM HISTORY 45

a, A Shunammite couple builds a guest recent victory over Moab has given Elisha 3, Memorize these facts about the event: chamber for Elisha. a favorable access to tlie king at Samaria, a. The boy becomes deathly sick and b. The couple is rewarded with a son, so he suggests he can speak to the king or dies. to the captain in their behalf', Her answer b, His mother goes and gets Elisha. c. Elisha restores the boy to life, COMMENTS ("I dwell among mine own people") itidicales Elisha's speaking to tlie nation's COMMENTS liuiiem is near the Hill o€Moreh at leaders might involve a move to another the east end of the Esdraeloii Plain, place, and her answer shows she would e say "Elisha also", €or his SIt is tlie home o€ an unnamed "great pre€er remaining where they are, "Be it woman" and her husband who have no predecessor Elijah likewise ever so humble," tlie song says, "there's performed a resurrection (I children, We wonder why the woman is 110 place like home," Her contentment W so prominent in the account while her IGngs 17:17-23), In both instances it is a with where she is living probably means son who is raised, and both mothers are husband is merely in the background, She she would be happy wherever she might is much younger than he and the active prominent in the accounts, live, On the other hand, people who are Time has passed since the promised oiie in the home. Nor are we told of the unhappy will probably be unhappy meeting of this woman and the prophet son was born to the Shunammite couple. wherever they might move. Contentment They have had several years of enjoyment Elisha, She and her husband enjoy having is a great attribute of character, and this him as a guest whenever he passes from their son now grown to be a lad. It is woman has it, Upon her reply to Elisha, harvest time, and the boy's father-and the through Sliunem even though at first they she departs without any fiuther thought of did not realize lie was a prophet, We servants are in the harvest field. Like any any special gift. boy still too young to be included in the might wonder why he has not told them As Elisha asks Gehazi what lie might or why that fact hasn't somehow come out labor force, he enjoys being where the have to suggest, he suggests her action is. While lie is in the field watching during their conversations, But it is left childlessness would make tlie promise of for the woman to conclude to her the inen work, a severe headache strikes a child a fitting blessing, This time she is him, He holds his throbbing head and husband, "I perceive that this is an holy summoned to the doorway where the man of God, which passeth by us says to his father, "My head, my head," prophet tells her, "About this season, The father does not realize how serious continually, And he concurs with her according to the time of life, thou shalt expressed proposal to build a small room his son's case is, €or he and the other embrace a son," She is sure this cannot servants go ahead with the work while just for him, How surprised Elisha is the happen to her and her aged husband. In next time lie stops and sees his "home another carries the boy to the house. In her disbelief she responds much like li€e sometimes things are worse than we away Eron home"-a ilice room fwiished Abraliani did at first (Gen. 17:17), like with everything he might need (a bed, realize. Sarah (Gen. 18:12), and like Zacharias The sympathetic mother tries to table, stool, and candlestick). In providing (Luke 1:18). Still at the prophet's this special chamber she has really gone comfort the child as she holds him on her set-time she is blessed with the birth of a lap, But it is a losing battle, for even out of her way to be good to a prophet of son. God like people do who have God's though she holds lhiall morning, he dies at noon. Throughout these anxious hours servants in their homes for meals or QUESTiONS overnight. Such goodness is too much for of the morning she has wished for Elisha, 1. Reoite the 2 memory-facts for lhi6 event. but slie couldn't leave her son to go get an appreciative person like Elisha. He 2. Where is Shunem? must see she is blessed with sometling 3. Who lives here? him. Now that he is dead, she hurries to special just as Naamaii wanted to reward 4. Who often stops here? the propliet at Mt, Cannel some fifteen to 5. Whal do they build for him because he is a prophet? twenty miles west. Elisha for healing his leprosy (I1 Icings 8. Who is with Elisha on his next visit here? 5:15,16). So as Elisha stretches out on 7. What does Elisha first think 01 doing for the couple? Does she laow about Elijah's raising the bed, surveying his special room with 8, What is her answer7 the woman's son at Zarepliath? Possibly 8. What does the prophet now promise her? she has this in mind in not telling her enjoyment, he asks his servant Gehazi 10. What is her response7 (introduced here for the first time) to call 11. Is the promise luililled? husband about their son's death but the woman. It is evident she has not done asking him for one of tlie servants and Elisha Performs a this with any thought of being repaid for 46. also one of the asses (so she can get to Mt. Resurrection it. She has done good €or goodness' sake Carinel quicker). Nor does slie tell him her purpose when lie inquires, "Wherefore alone (the highest type o€ goodness that ASSIGNMENTS can be rendered). wilt thou go to him today? it is neither new moon, nor sabbath." What does the prophet have in mind? 1. Read II Kings 4:18-37. His assisting the king of Israel in the 2, Study the event until you can tell it. 46 DIVIDEDKINGDOM HISTORY

Mounting the ass she orders the the mother. Upon entering the house servant to make the beast go as fast as Elisha goes directly to the familiar ASSlG NMENTS possible unless she bids him otherwise. chamber, shuts the door behind him, and From their eminence on the mount prays. Arising from prayer he uses the 1. Read II Kin-gs 438-41. Elisha and Gehazi see them coming, and same procedure his respected predecessor 2. Study the event until you can tell it. the prophet recognizes her at some employed at Zarephath (I Kings 3. Memorize these facts about the event: a. One of the sons of the prophets distance. He bids Gehazi run and inquire 17:21)-he stretches himself upon the mistakenly makes some poisonous if all is well at her house. Her answer to boy's lifeless form. The warmth of his soup. the servant shows she is putting the body begins to warm the lad's body. But b. Elisha miraculously makes the soup servant aside as he proceeds directly to still no sign of life. As the prophet paces safe to eat. the prophet with her case. In life some of the floor in the room, he appears to be in our tasks can be performed by others as a quandary. The staff sent by Gehazi did COMMENTS well as by ourselves while other tasks not work, and now he is not seeing the require our own presence and attention expected results. For some reason God is ay, what has happened to the kings (the woman would not converse with delaying the miracle-maybe for Elisha's in this divided kingdom history Elisha's servant sent by him, nor was the sake (has he been taking miracle-power Sstudy? Have you noticed the same servant dispatched by Elisha able to for granted?), maybe for the mother's various events of Elijah's and Elisha's resurrect the boy). sake (who spoke critically to the prophet lives are so interesting that for awhile Upon her arrival she falls at Elisha's on the mountain). God's purpose in now we have been following their lives feet and holds them in an emotional momentarily withholding the miracle is instead of events involving kings? In outburst. Gehazi doesn't understand and evidently accomplished, for when Elisha time, of course, we will get back to the seeks to thrust her away. But Elisha says, returns to stretching himself upon the kings but not before we. follow several "Let her alone: for her soul is vexed child again, the boy opens his eyes and more events in Elisha's interesting within her: and the Lord hath hid it from sneezes seven times. How comforted prophetic career. me, and hath not told me." This statement Elisha is as he bids his servant come up. Elisha is back at Gilgal where one of of Elisha's is useful in accounting for Gehazi then calls the woman to come up. the groups of the sons of the prophets is. John the Baptist's saying he was not When she does, her son is alive! One day when they are sitting before him, Elijah (John 1:21) when Jesus later said This resurrection is one of only three the prophet gives orders to his servant to hewas (Matt. 11:13,14). Even aprophet resurrections recorded in the Old make some pottage (broth) for the young knew only the things revealed to him. If Testament. The others were Elijah's men. With a dearth upon the land food God chose not to reveal to John that he raising the widow of Zarephath's son supplies are in short measure, and people was Elij ah, he had no way of knowing he (referred to above) and the resurrection of are eating whatever they can find, From was. the dead man hurriedly buried in Elisha's all we read about the sons of the Her first words to Elisha reflect sepulchre-which is yet to be studied (I1 prophets, they live very frugal lives. complaint: "Did I desire a son of my lord? Kings 13:20,21). God's servants have always been more did I not say, Do not deceive me?'' At connected with work than wealth. frrst, of course, she couldn't think she was QUESTIONS One who goes out into the field to get going to be blessed with a child, Then he herbs for the pottage comes across a wild I Recite the 3 memory-facts for this event was born, and she has loved him so much. 2 Where does the boy get sick? gourd vine from which he fills his lap Now he is gone. Her sorrows now make 3 What part of him hurts? with its fruit, It was "probably the wild, her it would have been better not to 4 Who holds him until he dies? or so-called 'squirting' cucumber, which think 5 Whom does the bereaved mother want to see7 have had the child. 6 Where IS he? he mistakes for the ordinary cucumber, Sensing the child is dead, Elisha gives 7 How does she get where he is7 one of the most common and favorite 8 What does the woman do on arrival? his staff to Gehazi and tells him to hurry 9 When she is finally able to talk, what does she articles of food in the East" (Edersheim). to her house and lay it on the boy's face. say? The abundance he brings back and But this does not satisfy the mother. She 10 What does Elisha send Gehazi to do? shreds into the broth makes it a much 11 What does she say that causes Elisha to go with says, "As the Lord liveth, and as thy soul her? awaited meal. But as soon as they begin liveth, I will not leave thee.'' So Elisha 12 What success does Gehazi have? to eat, the error is detected, and they cry accompanies her back to Shunem. On 13 What is bewildering to the prophet? 14 How many times does the child sneeze? out to the prophet in fear, "There is death their way they meet the returning Gehazi 15 How does the woman show her great respect for in the pot," and they immediately stop who reports that nothing happened when the prophet? eating it. The one who shredded the he laid the staff across the boy's face. We poisonous vegetable into the pottage are not told the effect his report has on 47, A Hard-Times Miracle thought that what he was doing was all DIVIDEDKINGDOM HISTORY 47 riglit, Siiicerity apart from luiowledge is not enough but can be tragic (Prov, 14:12)- that the Levitical iwiests haviiia 4. tiow many IS he going to feed? 5. what promise does Elisha make? 110 But lhere is need to dump the withdrawn from tlie laiidof Israel (See 6 6. Does the promise come true? pottage out when tlie miracle-working Cllron, 11:13,14), pious Israelites prophet is present, God's miracle-power transferred to tlie propliets, W~OIII God 49, A Great Syrian General is can overcoine poison: Jesus said if the raised up, the offerings required by the Mealed apostles drank any deadly thing, it would Law to be given to the priests (Nu111 iiot liurt tlmn (Mark l6:18), and Paul 18:13; Deut,18:4)." We might observe ASSIGNMENTS shook a venomous beast o€€hishand into that tlie inan bringing the firstfruits might a fire with no resulting damage (Acts have excused hitiiself that since there is 1. Read II Kings 5:l-27. 28:3-5). So Elisha proceeds with another no €aitliful Levitical priesthood, he is not 2. Study the event until YOU Can tell it. miracle. Again it will be a tiiiraclc obligated to give his firstfruits, But 3. Memorize these facts about the event: employing "means" such as occasionally recognizing Elislia as a man of God, he The 'yrian captain Naaman hss brings thein to him. Would we have done leprosy. characterize a miracle: the tree cast into b, His slave tells him of the prophet the * bitter waters at Marah (Exo. the same, or would we have kept them in Israel who can heal him. 15:23-25), the salt cast into the Jericho and used them for ourselves? c. Elisha tells him to dip seven times in spring (Il Kings 2:21), tlie moistened clay The prophet receives it €rom the giver the Jordan. ' for the blind man's eyes (John 9:6,7), tlie and orders his servant to set it before one d. He is at first upset with such a anointing oil in miracles of healing by the hundred inen (probably the sons o€ tlie ridiculous proposal. apostles (Mark 6:13), etc. The means prophets here at Gilgal). The amount e. But when he changes his mind and used in this present miracle is meal put would normally be enough to feed twenty obeys, he is healed. into the pottage. This being done, the men-not one hundred, When his servant Elisharefuses his generous eating continues. ballts at such an order, Elisha assures him but Gehazi covets the reward and "They shall eat, and shall leave thereof." ends up with leprosy. QUESTIONS And- just as Jesus on two different COMMENTS 1. Recite the 2 memowfacts lor this event. occasions multiplied small quantities of Where is Elisha at this time? food to make them ample to ked large 2. e are here introduced to a 3. Who are with him? multitudes (five thousand and €our 4. What food is the servanl preparing for them? Soreigi military captain thousand), so Elisha miraculously feeds 5. What is the oause of alarm? (Naaman, head of the Syrian 6. "0 thou man of God, there is in the this gro~ipwith this limited supply of W amy). He is held in the highest esteem by pot." food, And "they did eat, and left thereoij 7. How is the problem taken care of? his king because of a great deliverance to according to the word of the Lord." Syria he has brought about, which tlie Notice here that Elisha's word is "the 48, Elfsha Multiplies Loaves Bible says, "By hiin tlie Lord had given word of tlie Lord". deliverance to Syria." This deliverance "Clarke" observes, "This is something ASSIGNMENTS was probably from tlie oppressing hand like our Lord's feeding the multitude oiAssyria. We can be sure God had some 4I. Read II Kings 4:42-44. miraculously. Indeed, there are many purpose either in €avoring Syria or 2. Study the event until you can tell it. things in this chapter similar to facts in bringing the inan Naarnan into the 3. Memorize these facts about the event: our Lord's history, and this prophet might a. A limited amount of food Is on hand limelight as a background to this miracle. be more aptly considered a type of our Verse 2 sounds like border-raids by to feed one hundred men. Lord than most oitlie other persons in tlie b, Through Elisha's miraculous help they the Syrians against Israel. In one of these Scriptures who have been thus honoured." all eat and have food left over. a young girl is taken. Providentially she Yes, there are similarities between this becomes inaid to Naainan's wik When COMMENTS miracle and Jesus' miraculous feedings: Naaman becomes leprous, everything (1) they both began with limited looks dark €or liin and those o€ his rov. 3:9 says, "Honour the Lord quantities; (2) the servants were told to household. By this time the maiden has give food to the people; (3) tlie servants with thy substance, and with the become a part of the household, so she could see the problem of not having P€irstfruits o€ all thine increase. 'I too is concerned €or her master. As a Thus we see a inan from Baalshalisha (a enough for everybody; (4) all ate; and (5) young girl she has adjusted to being a city in the maritime plain north of Lydda) there was €ood left over. slave which would have been more bringing lis "firstfruils" to the inan o€ difficult for an adult to do. God (Elisha). Normally the firstfruits QUESTIONS 48 DIVIDEDKINGDOM HISTORY

~ ~ ~~ One day she says to Naaman's wife, There is nothing hard to understand important, for the cure involves a definite "Would God my lord were with the about the instructions. But both the number of dips. All remains the same prophet that is in Samaria! for he would instructions and the way his case is with his disease until he dips the seventh recover him of his leprosy.'' It is obvious handled are totally different from what and final time. And then "his flesh came the many miracles of Elisha have become the great general had envisioned. In his again like unto the flesh of a little child, household knowledge throughout the rage he reveals what he had expected and and he was healed!'' Oh, how happy he is! Northern Kingdom. The maiden's words also his contempt for the thought that How glad he is he did obey the prophet's are carried by others to Naaman himself. dipping in Jordan will do him any good: order! He wishes to go to Elisha, and his king "Behold, I thought, He will surely come There is an interesting analogy provides him with a letter to the king of out to me, and stand, and call on the name between Naaman's dipping in Jordan and Israel. of the LORD his God, and strike his hand baptism today. Some people object to the Outfitted with the king's letter and over the place, and recover the leper. Are necessity of baptism, saying water has taking with him a tremendous reward for not Abana and Pharpar, rivers of nothing to do with one's salvation. Does the prophet (ten talents of silver, six Damascus, better than all the waters of water have anything to do with Naaman's thousand pieces of gold, and ten changes Israel? May I not wash in them, and be cure? Yes, it is that in which he is to dip. of raiment) Naaman is off for Samaria clean?'' (Being mountain streams the Water doesn't cure him, but he isn't cured full of optimism concerning the prospect Syrian rivers are much clearer than the without it. Notice, too, that exact of being healed. silt-laden Jordan.) obedience is necessary: the right river, the Arriving at Samaria he is shown to the It is obvious from the general's rage right act (dipping), and the right number palace. The king of Israel reads the letter. he is not intending to follow the of dips. Does he feel complimented that the king instnlctions, and to him his whole trip has So thankful is Naaman that even of Syria has turned to him for help? been futile. Besides, his hope of being though he is actually part way back to (Obviously it is a time of peace between cured is suddenly dashed to the ground. Damascus here at the Jordan, he returns a the two nations, or the Syrian king would At this point his servants venture to offer day's drive to Samaria to give Elisha a not be sending his general into Israelite him some sensible reasoning: "My father, reward. He personally goes to the door of territory with such a request.) No, he does if the prophet had bid thee do some great the prophet and stands healed before the not interpret it as a compliment but as an thing, wouldest thou not have done it? man of God and proclaims, "Behold, now occasion to resume old hostilities between how much rather then, when he saith to I know that there is no God in all the their countries. The king of Israel does thee, Wash, and be clean?" Yes, he would earth, but in Israel," and he goes on to ask not know the background of Naaman's have carried out difficult instructions if for two loads of Israelite soil to take back coming-Naaman's maid's suggestion. such had been issued. Besides, it won't with him (seemingly 011 which to erect his Evidently the letter says nothing about the hurt to follow Elisha's instructions. While own altar to Jehovah), for he says, "Thy prophet Elisha. Naaman defers to carry out Elisha's order, servant will henceforth offer neither burnt The king is in a quandary as to what Elisha is in his house fully aware of the offering nor sacrifice unto other gods, but to do. He can't heal Naaman, and to send general's thinking. He knows if Naaman unto the LORD." Realizing his own king him home as he came will appear as a obeys, the leprosy will be gone, but if he will still require him to go with him into refusal to help. At this point Elisha sends disobeys, it won't be. Notice, too, he the house of his god, Naaman says he will this message to his king: "Wherefore hast doesn't go out and reason with him, nor be doing it purely as a matter of orders thou rent thy clothes? let him come now does he send out a modified set of and not as a matter of personal religion, to me, and he shall know that there is a instructions that might be more and he states, "In this thing the LORD prophet in Israel" (and so will Israel's acceptable to him. Here are lessons for us pardon thy servant, that when my master king). who preach God's message to people. goeth into the house of Rimmon to As Naaman rides away to the Naaman's servants' words evidently worship there, and he leaneth on my hand, prophet's house, the king is relieved, and get through to him even though a general and I bow myself in the house of Naaman is soon to be where his maid does not usually follow servants' Rimmon: when I bow down myself in the knew he should be (with Elisha instead of suggestions, But if there is any way to get house of Rimmon, the LORD pardon thy the king of Israel), Likely Naaman sends well, he is now at least willing to try it. So servant in this thing,I' a servant to the door, and the prophet eastward the Syrian entourage heads. When Naaman brings forth all the responds by sending his servant (likely Jordan, here we come. gold and silver and changes of garments, Gehazi) with this surprising message: See the great military leader humbling Elisha responds like Daniel will years "Go and wash in Jordan seven times, and himself as he leaves his chariot and walks later when Belshazzar will offer him great thy flesh shall come again to thee, and out into the stream and dips himself once, gifts and honors for interpreting the thou shalt be clean." twice, three times, etc. The count is handwriting on the wall (see Dan. DIVIDEDKINGDOM HISTORY 49

5 :16,17), Elisha refuses the gins even receive garments, and oliveyards, aiid ilie timber along the Jordan and get some though strongly urged by Naainan to vineyards, and sheep, aiid oxen, and beams for constructing something larger. receive them Obviously Elisha is not niensei-v ants, and maidser v ants ? I' Ewli yowig man is to be involved. As you mercenary in serving God, I€ he were, lie And what will Geliazi's puliishiiieiit can see, tlieirs is a self-help project., would tell Naaman ahead o€ time what be for coveting, lying to Naanian, and Money is not on hand to hire the building the bill will be, Would most of God's now lying to Elisha? "The leprosy constructed, Much of God's work has to servants today do as Elislia does here? tliere€ore o€ Naainan shall cleave unto be done on this basis for lack of available So Naaman departs €or home with all iliee, and unto tliy seed for ever," and the funds, his gifts, with two mules loaded with liarsli judgment falls on him immediately, Perniissjon is granted, and Elisha Israelite soil, and with a healthy body! for "lie went out fioin his presence a leper accoinpanies them upon request of one of Now Elisha's servant Geliazi would as white as snow," Gehazi had hoped to the young nien, All is going well as the like to have some of the treasure and better himsel€, but his sin lias ruined him sound of' %hop, chop, chop" is heard clothing that Naainan offered Elisha, And instead. tlirougliout tlie area. But all of a sudden his covetousness caused hiin to fabricate the unexpecled happens: tlie ax-head flies a lie in order to obtain some, He knows QUESTIONS of€ and goes into the river. Matters are what he is going to say as he runs to I. Recite the 8 memory-facts for this event niade worse when the user exclaims, overtake Naaman: "My master [Elisha] 2. Tell about Naaman (who he Is, his nationality, hls "Alas, master! for it was borrowed," Is position, his disease, etc) something borrowed more apt to get lost hatli sent me, saying, Behold, even now 3. Who suggests Elisha oan cure him? there be conic: to me fiom inount Ephraim 4. Where does Naaman's king send him? or broken, or does it just seem that way? two young inen o€ the sons of tlie 6, What does the king of Israel think when he reads Will the prophet involve the letter? miracle-power in something so trivial as prophets: give them, I pray thee, a talent 6. What message does Elisha send to hls king? of silver, and two changes of garments." 7. What does Naaman think Elisha will do when he to recover an ax-head? I-Ie asks to be Believing the request to be from Elisha, arrlves at his place? shown the exact place where the head 8. What does Elisha tell him to do? Naaman is willing-in fact, lie urges him D, What Is Naaman's first reaction to Elisha's disappeared. He cuts of€ a stick and to take two talents of silver so each will ~nslructions? Uu-ows it into the river at tlie spot, And up 10. Who persuades Naaman to do what Elisha has conies tlie borrowed item to the joy of the have a talent of silver as well as a change said? of gamieiit. In €act, Naaman's goodness 11. Does Naaman decide to comply? group, It is a matter of course to reach out includes dispatching two of his servants 12. Where does Naaman go after being cured? and take the head and put it back on the 13. What does Elisha refuse? to carry it for Gehazi. Naturally Gehazi 14. What does Gehazi tell Naaman? handle and continue its use. does not want the servants to go along, or 15. What does Elisha tell Gehazi? Elisha will find out what he is doing. QUESTIONS When they get to a certain tower, he puts 50, The Borrowed An: 1. Recite the 2 memory-facts for this event. the items in the tower, and the men return 2. What problem faces the sons of the prophets as our ASSIGNMENTS event opens? to Naaman, 3 What do they propose doing? Lest Elisha iniss him, Gehazi 4. Who accompanies them? 1. Read II Kings 6:1-7. promptly returns to the prophet's 6 What oalamity happens? 2. Study the event until you can tell it. 6 How Is the matter taken care of? presence. The prophet knows everything 3. Memorize these facts about the event: Gehazi has done, He opens the a, As the sons of the prophets are SI, Plisha Foils the Syrian King's conversation by asking Geliazi where lie cuttlng down trees to enlarge their Plans has been, Like a disobedient child Geliazi living quarters, the head of a answers, "Nowhere" (a lie). It has been borrowed ax comes off and falls into ASSIGNMENTS said that a lie is often a twin-sin, ineaniiig the rlver. a lie is often told in an attempt to cover b. Elisha miraculously retrieves the ax 1, Read II Kings 6:8-23, up some sin already coitnitted, This is head, 2. Study the event until you can tell It. what Gehazi is doing. 3. Memorize these facts about the event: Now Elisha shows lie is fully aware o€ COMMENTS a, Elisha keeps tipping off his own king Gehazi's covetous deed: "Went not mine concerning the Syrian king's plans. heart with thee, when the inan turned n spite of the wickedness in the b. The Syrian klng dispatches an army to Northern Kingdom an encouraging take Ellsha. again f?om his chariot to meet thee?" And c. Elisha blinds the army and leads it to in his following question Elisha reveals Isign is that the number o€the sons of Samarla, what he could have done with the amount the prophets lias grown to tlie point that their living quarters are too limited. They d. He opens their eyes in Samaria where offered him of which Gehazi now holds a they find themselves captives of Israel. part: "Is it a time to receive money, and to request permission from Elisha to go to 50 DIVIDEDKINGDOM HISTORY

e. Syria is glad to be released the young man; and he saw: and, behold, 5 What does he send an army to do? 6 What scares Elisha's servanl one morning? unharmed. the mountain was full of horses and 7 What prayer does Elisha pray? chariots of fire round about Elisha." No 8 What does his servant see? COMMENTS 9 What miracle does he perform on the Syrian soldiers? wonder Elisha is unafraid! It is really the 10 Where does he lead them? Syrians who need to be afraid, as we shall 11 What does Elisha's king ask him? he king of Syria plans an attack see. 12 What is his answer? against Israel, He gets everybody As the army approaches Elisha, he 13 What decision does Syria make concerning Israel? stationed, but his plans misfire T calls on God to smite it with blindness. 5% Predicts Incredible because Elisha has tipped off his own Elisha How stunned with surprise each Syrian is Plenty king concerning these plans. The Syrian to find he is not only blind but all his monarch revises his plans, and again the comrades are too. Elisha approaches them ASSIGNMENTS king of Israel escapes, We are not exactly in their blindness and offers to lead them sure how many times this happens, but to the man they are seeking. You would 1. Read II Kings 6:24-7:20. our text says it is ''not once nor twice". think they would want someone to lead 2. Study the event until you can tell it. The first time was written off as a them back to Syria instead. But they 3. Memorize these facts about the event: coincidence by the king of Syria, but consent and follow him. But they gullibly a. The Syrian army surrounds Samaria when this continues to happen, he is go with their friendly guide not realizing until the people are starving within. convinced of sabotage within his own he is leading them south to Samaria b. The king of Israel's intention to kill ranks. The reputation of Elisha has Elisha is stopped by Elisha's where the king of Israel is. Upon arrival prediction of incredible plenty by the continued to spread, and one answers the Elisha prays once more-this time for next day. king in these words: "Elisha, the prophet their eyes to be opened. And are they c. The king's representative who that is in Israel, telleth the king of Israel surprised again-this time to find questions the prediction is trampled the words that thou speakest in thy themselves in Samaria as captives of the underfoot in fulfillment of Elisha's bedchamber." Well, if that's who's doing very man they are seeking, of the king of personal prediction concerning him. it, let's go get him. This is the king's Israel, and of Samaria's soldiers! intention, and he dispatches spies to fid The lung of Israel realizes Elisha is COMMENTS out Elisha's whereabouts. Learning he is really the champion on this occasion, so in Dothan (a place about twelve miles he asks him what he should do with the uite some time has passed since north of Samaria and just south of the Syrians. His thought is to smite them, but Elisha's "victory" over the Syrian Esdraelon Plain) the king sends a large Elisha looks on them as war captives and army. This time the Syrian army army of men with horses and chariots to responds by saying, "Wouldest thou smite encloQ s Israel's capital city in a Dothan. those whom thou has taken captive with starvation siege. In such warfare a greater One morning when Elisha and his thy sword and with thy bow?" Obviously power surrounds a city so nobody can servant arise, the servant sees they are he wouldn't. Elisha directs him to "set either go out or come in. In time all completely surrounded by this Syrian bread and water before them, that they foodstuffs within a city will be exhausted, military detachment. The servant may eat and drink, and go to their and then the aggressor can easily break (probably the leprous Gehazi's successor) master." Bread-and-water is prisoner through and slaughter at will with a shows fear and alarm when he says to food. The king goes far beyond this when limited loss of his own men. Elisha, "Alas, my master! how shall we he prepares a great provision for them This "waiting" has been going on for do?" By Elisha's calm answer you would before releasing them. sometime, and there is now a great famine think Heb. 13:5,6 is already written, and Can't you imagine the conversation within Samaria. Prices have skyrocketed that Elisha has read it, for it says, 'We among the Syrian soldiers as they walk (even an ass' head is selling for an hath said, I will never leave thee, nor back to Damascus? They have had a trip exorbitant price as is dove's dung. The forsake thee. So that we may boldly say, full of unprecedented surprises, and they bony head will be boiled for broth, and The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear have learned the man whom they went to the dung will be fuel.) So bad are what man shall do unto me." Listen to arrest has been the author of all their conditions that a case of cannibalism is Elisha's answer: "Fear not: for they that surprises. brought directly to the king himself as be with us are more than they that be with Syria decides to leave Israel alone. follows. While he is making an inspection them." And then he goes on to show his tour around the top of the city's wall to less experienced servant the truth of what QUESTIONS view conditions both outside and inside he has just said: "Elisha prayed, and said, 1. Recite the 4 memory-facts for this event. the wall, he is accosted by a woman who Lord, I pray thee, open his eyes, that he 2. What upsets the king of Syria? tells him of an agreement she has with may see. And the Lord opened the eyes of 3. What does he think is happening? another woman. According to their 4. What does one of his men tell him about Elisha? DIVIDED KINGDOM HISTORY 51 agreeinelit they had eaten this woiiiaii's leprosy, So since he is propliesying such have good news to tell iiiunediately, what child yesterday, but the other woiiiaii iiow good €or Ihe city, he does not carry out his about us who have the Good News €or a refuses to give up her child €or today's plan to behead Elisha. lost world? What about our conscience? food, Moses predicted such terrible But how is such a predictioii to be What about our fear of not sharing it? coiidit ions wo~ldprevail if Israel forgot fulfilled? From where is this heflour But the king is skeptical, kariiig it to God (see Dcut. 28:52,53). and barley to come and in such abundance be a military trick whereby the Syrians This report is loo much for tlie the price will be so cheap? God, who are hiding, just waiting €or Saiiiaria to sackcloth-wearing king as he speaks inspires the propliet's predictions, has 13s open the gates, and they can pour €ortli hatefully of Elisha. Wliy does he have it way of bringing this prediction to pass. into their city. Yet lie does order an in €or Elisha? Has Elisha called €or this And I-Ie will use €our lowly lepers and not investigation, and there is €ound a path o€ situation as punishment fiom God, or is tlie lcing nor his army, The means He will dropped garments and vessels all the way the lciiig blaming hint for not using his use brings to mind the "base things" and to the Jordan. So tlie camp is indeed miracle-power to change tlie situation? "things which are despised" o€ I Cor. evacuated. The Syrian flour and barley We tliink the €'oriiier. 1:28. are brought to the gate o€ Sainaria €or At that veiy iiiomeiit the elders of the Wliat about these lepers? They also governmental sale to tlie starving people. nation are at Elisha's house coii€erring are victims of this famine, To sit longer is The prospect o€ €ood has turned tlie witli him, Fdly aware of the king's merely to await death €or them, And since populace into animals rushing for €ood, intention to kill him, Elislia tells them tlie fanhis 111 tlie city, it will do tliem 110 and the king's "right hand man" who has "this soii of a murderer" (soii of Ahab, the good to try to get into it. Their best option been appointed to be in charge o€tlie food murderer of Nabotli) is sending a seems to be to go begging at the Syrian sale is knocked down in the mob and iiiesseiiger to behead him, aiid he tells camp. I€ the Syriaiis kill them, they are tranipled underfoot. In his death is them to keep the door against tlie going to die of starvation anyway, and if llfilled the prediction he will see this but messenger, stating the king is close they feed them, they will live. So they not eat of it. behind him. decide to give it a try, but they decide not Before he is through the above to go to their camp directly from QUESTIONS statement, the king's inesseiiger is at his Samaria's gate but to approach their camp 1. Recite the 3 memory-facts for this event. door, The prophet speaks (probably from the other side (''the uttermost parl of 2. What is causing a famine in Samaria? 3. What problem does a woman bring to the king? tlvoughtlie door), saying, "This evil is of the canip"). 4. Whom does he blame for their terrible condition? . the Lord." The next statement (What As they make their way around and 6. What does he vow to do about it? should I wait for the Lord any longer?") then arrive at the other side of the camp, 6. What good news does Elisha predict that causes the king to spare him? we are attributing to Elisha, indicating it how surprised they are to find the camp 7. What does the king's "right hand man" exoiaim? is time now for him to perform another vacated! Where are the Syrians? Well, 8. How does Elisha reply to him? miracle with national significance. So he God has caused them to hear tlie noise of Q. What decision do four lepers make? 10. In what condition do they find the Syrian camp? says to the messenger, to the king, and to chariots, horses, and a great host, The 11. Why is it thus? the king's "riglit hand man", "Hear ye tlie Syrians concluded it was hired help 12. What does the king fear is taking place? word of tlie Lord: Thus saitli the Lord, To (supposedly the Hittites and the IS. How does the king's "right hand man" die? Egyptians). At the time there was just morrow about tlis time shall a measure o€ The Shunammite Woman and enough twilight left €or the €earful Syrians 63, fine flour be sold for a shekel, and two Her Land measures o€ barley for a shekel, in the to grab what they could and escape for gate of Samaria." What a thing to predict their lives, Thus tlie €orsaken camp. ASSIGNMENTS €or a starved city and a price-inflated Oh, w7hat a feast tlie liu~igrylepers time! The king's "right hand man" have! Then a€ter eating their fill, they 1. Read Ii Kings 8:l-6. exclaims in disbelief, "I€the Lord would gleeiiilly begin plundering the campsite of 2. Study the event until you can tell it. make windows in heaven, inight this thing silver and gold and raiment, What an 3. Memorize these facts about the event: be?" And die prophet replies, "Thou shalt unexpected turn o€ events €or them! But a. While the Shunammite woman Is out see it with thine eyes, but thou shalt not one o€ them has a conscience with a of the country during the drought, eat tliereoi:" As we shall see in the man's resulting €ear. He says to his comrades, another has taken over her property, "We do not well: this day is a day of good b. He will not vacate upon her return to case, it does not pay to disbelieve God, Shunem. His prophets, or His Word. tidings, and we hold our peace: if we tarry c. When she comes to the king with her King Jeliorain doesn't love Elisha, b~it till tlie morning light, some mischief will problem, Gehazi is telling the king he does respect lis predictions, for he has come upon us: now therefore come, that about Elisha's miracles including the seen them come to pass in tlie war with we may go and tell the king's household," resurrection of her son. Moab and in tlie case of Naaman's And the others coiicur. If they think they 52 DIVIDEDKINGDOM HISTORY

d. The king orders her land restored to sojourn in Philistine country as Abraham such astonishing things, and from whom her plus its crops while she was (Gen. 20:l) and Isaac (Gen. 26:l) had could he get this information except from away. done before her. Like Egypt, Philistia the prophet's own confidential servant? often escaped famines that struck other ...As to the circumstances of Gehazi's COMMENTS places. disease, he might overlook that, and In her leaving Shunem €or the duration converse with him, keeping at a he Bible's coverage of the of the drought, the prophet Elisha loses reasonable distance, as nothing but actual tremendous prophetic career of his good home at her house. In this, contact could defile." TElisha continues with another though, we see the prophet's We might observe also Jehoram asks interesting event-a prophetic career not unselfishness in his thinking of her Elisha's servant for the information rather distinguished by long-range Messianic personal welfare for the famine years than the prophet himself because he prophecies (he predicted none) but by rather than his own. knows Elisha does not think very highly predictions with immediate fulfillments The time of her return is providentially ofhh(seeI1Kings 3:13,14), andhe also and great miracles performed for the timed with King Jehoram's asking Gehazi recalls in the last event he had once benefit of contemporary individuals like about the numerous miracles of Elisha. vowed to take his life (I1 Kings 6:31) Naaman and the Shunammite woman and Jehoram has to be impressed by the before Elisha performed the great miracle for the benefit of Contemporary groups prophet's great miracle at Samaria when for his city. like Jericho and the sons of the prophets, he himself could do nothing about the As we begin a consideration of the food shortage prevailing throughout his QUESTIONS present event, we need to back up city (11 Kings 6:24-26). In the honesty of 1. Recite the 4 memory-facts for this event. somewhat in time for its setting. Is his own heart he has to know the 2. Where does the Shunammite woman go during the Elisha's announcement to this woman of famine years? "prophet" was more in tk 3 What problem does she face upon her return? the coming drought following the last matter than the "king". It is as Gehazl 1s 4. which miracle of Elisha is Gehazi telling the king event studied (is there another famine reciting the unusual resurrection of the about when the woman comes with her problem? coming?), or does her coming back into sh'mammite boy that his mother comes to 5 What order does the king give concerning her? the land follow the last event because that the king on business, and the boy is with famine is now over? In v. 1 the American her! Gehazi can hardly believe his eyes 54, The Syrian King Consults Standard reads that Elisha had spoken to when he sees them just as he is telling Elisha her in times past of the coming famine. I about the miracle involving them. Note take it that sometime before the most the providential timing. He exclaims to ASSIGNMENTS recent event@)studied, Elisha had spoken the king, "This is the woman, and this is to her of the coming years of famine, that her son, whom Elisha restored to life!" To 1. Read II Kings 8:7-15. she believed him and left her country for see fie very boy who was resurrected and 2. Study the event until YOU can tell it. those famine years, and that now she is to talk with his mother about it 3. Memorize these facts about the event: back and is bringing her problem to the Gehazi's report more sure and more a. Ben-hadad of Syria in his sickness king. This fits the different tenses of the sends for Elisha. impressive to the king. b. Elisha predicts his messenger Hazael verbs in this section, and coming on the Now when she reports her problem (a will become Syria's king. heels of Elisha's great miracle of "plenty" stranger is living in her house, farming c, Hazael returns and smothers for Samaria probably accounts for the her land, and refusing to get out), the king Ben-hadad and takes over in his king's special interest in the other is immediately on her side. He summons place. miracle-reports concerning Elisha. an officer to go with her to see that her Let us back up then to Elisha's house and land are restored as well as the COMMENTS

at is Elisha doing in Damascus, Syria's capital? wSince this event will introduce us to Hazael, one of the men God talked about to Elijah (I Kings 19:15-17), God has likely sent him here in connection with Hazael's becoming king of Syria. That is what comes out of this visit. DIVIDEDKINGDOM HISTORY 53

Elislia is apparently safe in Syria as for he says, "What is thy servant, who is before it all falls into his lap when his well as in Israel, for his miracles involved but a dog, that lie should do this great father dies, In tlie same way some in healing Syria's general Naaman (I1 thing?" (v, 13) lo wlkli Elisha says, "Tlie colleges eniploy tlie same procedure, Kings 5:10,14) and his liandlilig the Lord hat11 shewed me that thou shalt be installing a iiew president to serve a while whole Syrian aniiy (I1 Kings 6:8-23) have king over Syria," under the existing president. This tends to gained bin1 a reputation so that even The king is happy upon Hazael's give continuity to existing policies and to foreign countries respect liim. retwi, for he tells him that Elisha lias prepare tlie incunibent for the role lie is to At this lime tlie Syrian king said, "Thou sliouldest surely recover," fill, Ben-liadad is sick, and hearing Elislia is Now David knew he was to succeed Saul Thus, both kingdoms have Jeliorams as in the city, he desires a good word from as king of Israel, but he did nothing to kings. In this same era of time tliey will lhthat he will recover, His thought is if hasten tlie time. But Hazael is of a both have Ahaziahs also, In Israel it is Elislia says lie will recover, he will, different spirit, for on the following day Ahaziah first and then Jehoram while in Hoping to gain liis favor, he sends a lie takes a water-saturated cloth into the Judah it is the reverse order (Jehoram first tremendous gid to him-a gift of "every king's chamber and overpowers the and then Aliaziah), Judah's Jelioram is good thing of Damascus" borne on forty helpless king as he smothers liim to death thirty-two when he begins his co-regent camels! Barnes observes, "Forty camels and immediately takes over as king. iule (I1 Kings 8:17). were laden with it, and this goodly caravan paraded the streets of the town, QUEST1ONS QUESTIONS conveying to die prophet the splendid gift 1 Recite the 3 memory-faots for this event .I. Reoite the 2 memory-facts for this event. designed for him. Eastern ostentatioii 2 Why does Ben-hadad send Hazael to Elisha? 2. Who is Jehoram of Judah's father? induces donors to make the greatest 3 Tell of the gift the king sends to Elisha 3. Who is ruling in the North a1 this time? 4 Will the king die of his present sickness? possible show of their gifts, and each 5 What did God reveal to Elisha conoerning Hazael's 56, The Good King Jehoshaphat camel would probably bear only one or future? 6 Why does Elisha look intently at Hazael and weep? Dies two articles." Even so it still represents a 7 How does Ben-hadad die? tremendous gift for Elisha. Your writer's ASSIGNMENTS guess is the prophet does not accept 55, Jehoram Becomes eo-Regent it-he didn't Naaman's great gift (I1 with Jehoshaphat 1. Read I Kings 2250; II Chron. 21:l-3; II Kings 5 : 5,15,16), Chron. 20:34. The man whom the king sends to ASSIGNMENTS 2, Study the event until you can tell it. make the inqujr is Hazael. Elisha says to 3. Memorize these facts about the event: tell the Icing, "Thou mayest certainly 1. Read II Kings 8:16. a. Upon hie death Jehoshaphat is recover." Then to Hazael the prophet says 2, Study the event until you can tell it. entombed at Jerusalem. about Ben-hadad, "Howbeit the Lord 3. Memorize these facts about the event: b. His son Jehoram continues as king. a. Jehoshaphat's son Jehoram begins to c. Jehoshaphat leaves rich gifts and hath shewed me that he shall surely die.'' rule alongside his father. cities to his other sons. In other words tlie king is going to die b. Jehoram is ruling in the North. even though it will not be from his COMMENTS sickness. COMMENTS One has to figure out the pronouns in he good Jehoshaphat of Jerusalem v, 11, Is this verse talking about Elislia or -sually tlie death of tlie king takes has reigned twenty-five years over Hazael-or both? In view of later verses place before a new king is TJudah. Much of his reign lias it seeins it is Elisha who looks and looks U crowned either in Judali or Israel, paralleled Icing Ahab's twenty-two year at Hazael without saying a word until Normally we read tlie king slept with his reign in Israel, His has been an eventful Hazael is ashamed and fiiially asks, "Why fathers (died), and his son reigned in his reign (a Jehu, son of Hanani, will later weepeth my lord?" He says it is because stead, But Jehosliaphat, who lias been write a full account of liis reign). of what he can prophetically foresee king of Judah during tlie Elijah-Elisha Jehoshaphatk firstborn Jelioram, who has about Ilazael-that he will be utterly years, is still king in the South, and he been ruling co-regent with him for cruel in tlie mistreatment of Elisha's own will follow a different procedure. While several years, will now continue as sole people. Though Hazael cannot foresee he is still living, he personally has his ruler of Judali. But Jehoshaphat did not this at this time, according to Amos 1:3,4 firstborn son crowned co-regent with forget his other six sons, leaving each of this is the way he will turn out. him.We are not told why, but it may have them large gifts of silver, gold, and other It is obvious from the American been to give some relief to Jehoshaphat or things as well as certain fortified cities. Standard that Hazael does not yet to be sure the proper son will be ruling visualize himself in such a powerful act, after his death or to train him in ruling 54 DIVIDEDKINGDOM HISTORY

You may notice in the list of these the once sacred throne of David in him as they would usually do for their sons there are two Azariahs. In the Jerusalem. He has as his wife Athaliah, king. He departs "without being desired", Hebrew the two names show a slight daughter of the wicked Ahab and a and he is not entombed among the kings. variation ("Black"). "reincarnation" of her wicked mother Jezebel, and Athaliah has a strong QUESTIONS QUESTIONS intluence in his administration. Things in 1. Recite the 6 memory-faols for this event. 1. Recite the 3 memory-facts for this event. Judah are now bad enough for God to 2. What atrocity marks the beginning 01 Jehoram's reign? 2. Where IS Jehoshaphat entombed? destroy it from the face of the earth, and 3. How many sons did he have? 3. Who is his wife? 4. How come there are two Azariahs? the only reason He doesn't is because of 4. Who is her father? 5. Which son becomes Jehoshaphat's successor? His special promises to David. 5. What two places revolted from under Jehoram? 6. What do the others inherit? Nevertheless God begins to reduce 6. What troubles does Elijah's writing foretell for' him? 7. Who will write an account of Jehoshaphat's eventful 7. Who brings Philistia and Arabia against him? reign? Jehoram's power by enabling both Edom a. Tell of his final illness. and Libnah to revolt from under his 9. What shows he died dishonorably? 57, Jwdah Decllnes under rulership. Jehoram As Jehoram builds idolatrous high 58, Another Ahab-Related King places in Judah and coinpels the In the South ASSIGNMENTS inhabitants of Jerusalem to participate in his idolatry, a special writing of the now ASSIGNMENTS 1. Read II Chron. 21:4-20 and II Kings 2317- deceased prophet Elijah is delivered to 1. Read II Chron. 22:l-5 and I1 Kings 24. him.We are not told in whose custody the a:25-2a. 2. Study the event until you can tell it. writing has been since Elijah's 2. 3. Memorize these facts about the event: Study the event until you can tell it. passing-maybe Elisha's. The writing 3. Memorize these facts about the event: a. Jehoram kills his six brothers and other princes. pays special tribute to three good kings a. Ahaziah joins in his battle against Hazael at b. Influenced by his wife he is wicked preceding him (David, Asa, and Ramoth-gilead. like his father-in-law (Ahab of the Jehoshaphat) from whose ways Jehoram North). has departed while choosing the ways of b. Jehoram goes to Jezreel after being wounded in battle. C. Edom and Libnah revolt from his Ahab, a wicked king of the north. In this control. he is preferring the ways of his wife COMMENTS d. A writing of Elijah foretells the troubles (daughter of Ahab) to his own godly to befall Jehoram because of his ancestors. It is noticeable that the women wickedness. in his wife's line are husband-dominators: lthough we associate the Judean e. Philistia and Arabia plunder his palace offspring of Ahab with and take his family members. Jezebel dominated Ahab (I Kings 2 1:25), and Athaliah is dominating Jehoram, for Awickedness, "Barnes" makes a f. He dies after two years of intense I1 Chron. 21:6 says the reason he is worthy observation when he says, "Such suffering. names as Athaliah, Jehoram, and Ahaziah walking in the ways of &ab is because of indicate that the Baal-worshiping kings COMMENTS her. The troubles Elijah's communication foretell will come because of following did not openly renounce the service of Ahab's ways and because Jehoram killed Jehovah. Athaliah is 'the time for y does Jehoram kill his Jehovah', Ahaziah 'the possession of his brothers (said to have been better than brothers and the princes? In Jehovah', and Jehoram or Joram 'exalted order to eliminate any he). w When God brings the invaders by Jehovah'.I' power-threat to his rule. History records Philistia and Arabia into Judah who carry Ahaziah is also called by two other many such cases of suspicion and intrigue names: Jehoahaz in I1 Chron. 21: 17 and off Jehoram's treasure and some of his among members of royal families. Now Azariah in I1 Chron. 22:6. Having more family members, you would think he will that they are out of the way, he feels than one name was something more repent. But there are many people even secure in his kingship. But God has taken common in Bible days than today. For today who disregard what God is bringing note of his heartless act (probably instance, the fisherman of Galilee was on them and continue in their wicked unprovoked by anything his brothers or called "Simon" (John 1:41), "Cephas" ways. the princes did), as God sees all that takes (John 1:42), "Peter" (John 1:44), and And how terribly he suffers from place on earth (see Prov. 15:3), which "Simon Peter" (John 1:40). Other diseases during his final two years until proves that the best laid plans of men do examples: "Barsabas, who was surnamed not always cany through to fulfillment. finally his bowels fall out. And because of all the reverses that have come during his Justus" (Acts 1:23); "Joses, who by the This cruel act is but an indication of apostles was surnamed Barnabas" (Acts the character of the one now occupying regime, when he dies they do not honor DIVIDED KINGDOMHISTORY 55

4:36); atid "Judas was surnamed 7 Which Icing Is WQunded7 Elisha sends one of tlie sons of tlie Barsabas" (Acts 15:22), prophets with anoiiiting oil to In the preceding event when the s9* Jehu isAnointed to Ramotli-gilead to anoint Jehu, When lie invaders look King Jehoram's family (I1 Ahabs House and Baalism arrives, he finds Jehu and other Chroii, 2 1: 17), they somehow missed high-ranking officers together, who have ASSIGNMENTS Ahaziali (die youngest), According to our been left by tlie wounded Jelioram to present text the invaders killed his Read II Kings 9:1.13, maintain Ramotli-gilead against Hazael brothers. NOWwith Icing Jehoram dead, 2, Study the event until you can tell it, of Syria, the inhabitants of Jerusalem Still have 3. Memorize these facts about the event: Since Jehu is a Rigged man of war, be Ahaziah lo keep the Davidic line on the 8. Elisha sends a servant to anolnt Jehu does not fear to go alone into a secret throne, His short reign of one year will be secretly. chamber with tlie young man to see what amwited for in a fortlicoiiiiiig event (No, b. He tells Jehu he is divinely his mission is. Undoubtedly tlie young 71). commissioned to bring judgment on man introduces himself as one of the sons His mother Atlialiah is again spoken the house Of Ahab and On Jezebel. of tlie prophets from Elisha and proceeds of daughter of "Omri" whereas I1 C. His fel~ow-officers publicly Proclaim to give hiln Elishais begimlilig as him king. Kings 8:18 calls her the daughter of with the prophetic beginning, "Thus saith the Lord God of Israel." Otherwise it "Aliab". In I1 Kings 8:26 where tlie text COMMENTS calls her the "daughter" of Oinri, tlie would be strange for him to be accepting this as a divine call to kingship from an marginal note calls her the "grand- s King Jehoram is resting and unidentified stranger whose coming daughter", With all matters considered it recuperating at his city Jezreel seems bizarre to Jehu's fellow-officers, appears she was tlie daughter of Ahab froni the wounds lie received at A Jehu is all ears as lie is told God is andthe Piddaugliter of Omria Ramotli-gilead, lie is maware of God's comments that "son" and "daughter" were intelltions collce~lillg liim, llor is be making him king over His people Israel, that lie is to make the house of Aliab like used by the Of anY descelidallts aware of a sudden conspiracy against his the exterminated houses of Jeroboam and (compare Matt. 1:1). throne about to take place. This reminds At this ''Ine Israel and Syria are agaili us uiat while God lalows what is going 011 Baasha, and that Jezebel is also to come having war over who is goillg to 'lave in every place, we Iimia11s are often to her end. Jehu has long been associated Ramolh-gilead. You will remember that iglorallt of wllat is iIjust aromld tile with the military under Ahab and his llot successors, but his loyalty to them up to it was when Jelioshapliat and Ahab were comerll,Thus we are told, at war with Syria over Ran1otl1-gilead tliyself of to morrow; for tliou lmowest now is no deterrent to his willingness to fiat Ahab was 'nOfial1Y womdcd (I l'illgs liot what a day may bring forth" (Prov go against them to become king himself. 22). As the king of the South Ahaziah 27:i). Afkr the messenger of Elisha makes a hasty exit, Jehu comes forth to his 'E, and goes With the king Of 'lie As far back as Elij& at Mt, Sinai, God North Jehoram (his relative), it reminds has lnelitiolled Jelluis collling part ill comrades who ask him what is going on. one of that former event. Well, again the eradicatillg the wiclcedness brouglit into He either means or at least says they Of Israel is know the messenger and his mission, 'lot Israel by Jezebel. Hopefully you will as was Because Of relneliiber Elijah was cormnissioned to which they deny knowing whereupon he decides to break the news to them. Their they wiihdraw "Om 'lie anoint Hazael as king over Syria, Jehu as willingness to proceed with a military Jehorani stops at 'lis ciq Jezreel loking Over Israel, and Elisha as prophet in recognition of him as king would indicate to his stead (I Kings 19:15-17). Anointing Jerusalem From the next event to be Elisha was done in E1ijalils they prefer him to Jehoram. (1 studied it appears Jelioram has left Kings 19: 19-21), Because of QUESTIONS several of his captains (including Jehu) at liwnbli.g l.limself after Elij prolio~lces Ramoth-gilead. diville judgnellt oll hill1 Over tlie 1 Recite the 3 memory-faots for thls event 2 Who sends his messenger to anoint Jehu? Naboth-vineyard matter (I Kings Where Is Jehu at this QUESTIONS 21:20-29), God has held up the anointing 4 Does he anoint Jehu publicly of privately? 1 Recite the 2 memory-facts for this event 5 How do Jehu's fellow-captains indicate their approval of~azaelalld jeliu proper tilne4 of him as a new king replacing the present king 2 What are Ahaziah's two other names? 3 Why is he, the youngest of the deceased king's T~us,it is Elisha instead of Elijah Who Jehoram? sons, made king Instead of one of his older fulfills the Hazael (11 Kings 8:7-15) and brothers? Jehu anointiiigs (this event). 60, Jehu Begins by Killing Israel's 4 How long does he reign? Jehoram 5 Who is ruling in the North? Now that God's time has arrived for 6 At what city do they loin together in battle against briq$ng judgment 011the house of Aliab, Syria? ASSIGNMENTS 56 DIVIDEDKINGDOM HISTORY

1, Read II Kings 8:29 and II Kings 9:14-26. comrade, "There is treachery, 0 Judah saw this, he fled by the way of the 2. Study the event until you can tell it. Ahaziah!" And these must be his last garden house. And Jehu followed after 3. Memorize these facts about the event: words, for before he is out of arrow-shot, him ...And he sought Ahaziah and they a. Ahaziah of Jerusalem is visiting the Jehu pulls the bowstring with all his caught him, (for he was hid in Samaria,) recovering Jehoram at Jezreel. might, the arrow hits him in the back and brought him to Jehu ...And Jehu said, b. Jehu makes a speedy chariot trip to Jezreel. piercing his heart, and he falls to the floor Smite him also in the chariot. And they c. When Jezreel's watchman spot him of his chariot like a shot bird. At the same did so at the going up to Gur, which is by and his group at a distance, Jehoram time Ahaziah is making his get-away. Ibleam. And he fled to Megiddo, and died dispatches a messenger to see if the Jehu makes a hasty decision con- there. And his servants carried him in a group is coming peacefully. cerning Jehoram's burial based on what chariot to Jerusalem, and buried him in d. When two groups of dispatched he remembered of Elijah's words to Ahab his sepulchre with his fathers in the city messengers are not allowed to return, when Ahab took possession of Naboth's of David ...because he was the son of Jehoram and Ahaziah go out confiscated vineyard (compare v. 26 with Jehoshaphat who sought the Lord with all personally to meet the group. I Kings 21:19-24). his heart. So the house of Ahaziah had no e. When Jehoram senses it is a power to keep still the kingdom." conspiracy, he hastily tries to escape QUESTIONS Notice the accompanying map for the only to be shot in the back by Jehu. 1. Recite the 6 memory-facts about this event. places involved in this event. 2. Where is Jehoram at this time? COMMENTS 3. Why does Jehu not lose any time getting where Jehoram is? ith the public proclamation of 4. What does Jehoram do when the watchman tells him of Jehu's unidentified group? Jehu as king, he knows he 5. What does Jehu do with Jehoram's messenger? must act hurriedly to get to the 6. How many such messengers does Jehoram send? W 7. How does the watohman identify Jehu as the group reigning King Jehoram at Jezreel before gets nearer? word does. He gives order that nobody be 8. What mistake do Jehoram and Ahaziah make? allowed to leave Ramoth-gilead to carry 9. What question does Jehoram ask as he and Jehu meet? any news to Jezreel. Taking a small 10. How does Jehu answel him? detachment with him, they cross the 11. What does Jehoram holler out to Ahaziah? Jordan and head straight for Jezreel. 12. How does Jehu kill Jehoram? 13. What order does he give concerning Jehoram's From the tower atop Jezreel's wall the dead body? MAP OF ISRAEL watchman spots their group at a great Jezreel = From which fled after distance. Jehoram dispatches a messenger 61, Ahaziah Is Sought Out and Ahaziah to inquire if the group is coming in peace. Killed Also Jehoram was shot. Samaria = Ahaziah hid here until found As the watchman watches, he sees the messenger is taken into custody and not ASSIGNMENTS by Jehu's men, Megiddo= To which he escaped after allowed to return. Jehoram sends out a second messenger, and he is not allowed 1. Read II Chron. 22:7,9 and II Kings being wounded and where he 9:27,28. died. to return either. By this time the group is 2. Study the event until you can tell it. gercing closer, and the watchman analyzes Jerusalem = Where he was buried, 3. Memorize these facts about the event: This sudden turn of events resulting in it as Jehu by his furious driving. a. Jehu finds and wounds Ahaziah. Jehoram is surprised Jehu would leave the premature death of Ahaziah accounts b. He escapes Jehu but dies at Megiddo. for his reigning only one year (I1 Kings his post at Ramoth-gilead, so he and c. His body is returned to Jerusalem for 8:26). Ahaziah get in their chariots to go out to burial. see what the problem is. Obviously they Thus we come to a natural break in Divided Kingdom History when both do not sense any danger until Jehu COMMENTS kingdoms have simultaneously lost their answers his question about ''peace'' by kings, and when both kingdoms will start saying, "What peace, so long as the ur two accounts of Ahaziah's whoredoms of thy mother Jezebel and her death are very brief, and what with new kings. witchcrafts are so many?" It doesn't take details they contain are not as 0 QUESTIONS Jehoram long to realize this is a different easily harmonized as most Bible events Jehu than he has known and trusted. As reported by two or more writers. Without I. Recite the 3 memory-facts for this event, 2. Where do they find the hiding Ahaziah? he orders his chariot to wheel around and being dogmatic permit your writer to 3. What order doe8 Jehu give concerning him? get going to safety, he hollers out to his compile a harmony of the two accounts as 4. Where does he die from being wounded? follows: "But when Ahaziah the king of 5. Where is he buried? PART THREE From the Time Both Kingdoms have Simultaneous New Kings until the Fall of the Northern Kingdom.

Even after getting rid of the wicked Omri dynasty, calf-worship continues to characterize the Northern Kingdom, Some rough times are in store for the $outhern Kingdom also. 58 DIVIDEDKINGDOM HISTORY

Jezebel's Ignominious Death responding to her licentious offer, she 2. What does Jezebel do in hopes of enticing Jehu? 6% 3 What does she say to warn him of conspiracy? now reminds him that in the past, 4. What does Jehu ask anybody who is in her room? ASSIGNMENTS who slew King Elah, had no peace but got 5. Who responds? to reign only seven days, suggesting this i:::' zzz ~~ue'~~~e~s~~?.sthrOwn down? 1. Read II Kings 9:30-37. could be his fate if he continues to pursue 8. What does Jehu do before burying her? 2. Study the event until you can tell it. his present course of action. 9. Why does he decide to give her a burial? 3. Memorize these facts about the event: 10. What has happened to her body while he was a. Jezebel tries to change Jehu's mind. But looking up from the narrow street eating? b. It doesn't work-he orders her thrown in Jezreel to the window out of which down. Jezebel is looking Jehu inquires, "Who is 63, All of Ahab'r Sons are Killed c. He rides over her mangled body. on my side? who?" And surprisingly two d. When he later gives orders to bury or three of the eunuchs designated to take ASSIGNMENTS her, the dogs have eaten everything care of the queen respond by looking out but a few pieces. the window. They probably are motivated 1. Read II Kings 10:1-11. by fear of Jehu, so when he says to throw 2. Study the event until you can tell it. COMMENT§ her down, they do so. Can't you imagine 3. Memorize these facts about the event: the fright in her heart and the hollering a. Jehu challenges the rulers to elect a son of Ahab to resist him in battle. t may be debatable whether this event she does as they take hold of her and is to be placed here or between the b. They choose rather to submit to him throw her down? As she hits the wall and without a battle. deaths of Jehoram and Ahaziah. Your I caroms off on to the horses only to fall c. Jehu then calls for the heads of writer's studies cause him to place the down under the chariot, Jehu rides back Ahab's seventy sons to be brought to death of Ahaziah after the death of and forth over her in utter contempt. him at Jezreel the next day. Jehoram and the death of Jezebel after the Jezebel's bloody body lies in the street d. When their heads are brought, he has death of Ahaziah. In other words the when Jehu goes in to eat a meal. Since we them put in two heaps at the city likely order of their deaths is: (1) would have no appetite for food were we gate. Jehoram; (2) Ahaziah; (3) Jezebel. It to kill somebody as he kills Jezebel, it e. Jehu realizes he is fulfilling God's seems reasonable that when Jehu shot shows how hard Jehu is. word through Elijah against the house of Ahab. Jehoram while Ahaziah was making his While eating, Jehu recalls she is the get-away that he would pursue Ahaziah daughter of a king and should at least be COMMENTS until he put an end to him. And Scripture buried rather than left to wild animals and itself is even more coavincing. In I1 Kings the weather, so he gives order to bury her. dersheim" is no doubt correct 9: 16 It says, "So Jehu rode in a chariot, But the men are surprised to find the dogs when he says Jehu must act and went to Jezreel," and then it goes on of the street have already eaten on her to tell of his shooting Jehoram. This is Equickly, sharply, and completely if while Jehu was eating his meal-so much he is to avoid a counter-revolution from followed in the same chapter by the death so there is very little of her to gather up of Ahaziah. Jehu was by Ibleam when he the numerous offspring of a dynasty that and bury (only her feet, skull, and palms has ruled Israel for four generations. So to ordered Ahaziah smitten in his chariot (I1 of her hands-things of a human body Kings 9:27). Then follows the death of those who have been entrusted with the Jezebel which event opens with these words: "And when Jehu was come to Jezxeel" (I1 Kings 9:30). Since Jehu has killed her son Jehorani and has been out of town until Ahaziah was rounded up and taken care of, Jezebel DIVIDEDKINGDOM HISTORY 59

14:3 1,32 that if an inferior army realizes done lis work against tlie house of Ahab, vineyard or to sow seed (they were to live it cannot successfully meet him oii that Your writer favors this conclusioii, for off the wild products of tlie land), and day, it asks for conditions of peace as when Jehu inquires as to who they are, they were to live in tents and not build Peter's convicted hearers did on Pentecost they do not hesitate to identify themselves houses, Jer. 3 5 :5 - 10 shows in Jeremiah's (Acts 2:36,37), God's conditiolis of peace with Aliaziali, They loo are put to death at day they were still faith€bl to liis charge, for convicted sinners are round in Acts Jehu's order. So far Jehu lias killed both This Kenite has been unhappy with 238 (repentance and baptism). kings, Jezebel, Ahab's seventy the Omri-Ahab dynasty and so rejoices at What a gory sight tlie two piles of descendants in tlie North, and now his its Jehu-overthrow, Wien he and Jehu heads make as people come in and go out forty-two descendants in tlie South. meet, it takes them no time to find out of Jezreel's city gate! And while Jehu's According to God's plans for Hazael of they are both in full agreement with what talk in v, 9 appears to be an attempt to Syria, the prophet Elisha, and Jehu, they Jehu lias been doing. Consequently Jehu shift their death from liim to those whom have wiped out Aliab's fainily (I Kings invites him to come with him to see Ahab bad appointed to bring up tlie royal 19:17). As far as die Biblical record goes, further manifestations of his zeal for offspring, people are made to fear before it appears to be more Jehu than the other Jehovah. It is noteworthy that Jehu's zeal tlie powerfi;rl, aggressive new king, These two. FOR Jehovah will be manifested in liis heads give mute evidence he will allow no zeal AGAINST Baalism. Biblical zeal resistance to lis kingship, Jehu tells the QUESTIONS expresses itself in both what we are FOR people that nothing God spoke against 1 Recite the 2 memory-facts for this event. ("zealous of good works," Tit. 2: 14) and the house of Ahab by His prophet Elijah 2. Where are the forty-two relatives of Ahaziah going? what we are AGAINST (this event). will fail. 3. How does Jehu learn of their identity? V. 17 is very brief and void of details, 4. What order does he give concerning them? But whoever of Ahab is left in Samaria is QUESTIONS 65, Jehu also Wipes out Baal- killed by Jehu with Jehonadab along. 1. Recite the 5 memory-facts for this event Worshipers Though Jehu has been vicious in his 2. What chance does Jehu offer to have one of Ahab's treatment of the royal seed, the Baal- be king instead of him? sons ASS IGN M ENTS worshipers see in liis action only that of a 3. Why do they not go that route? 4. What bold demand does Jehu make concerning conspirator, so when he says, "Ahab Ahab's sons? 1. Read II Kings 10:15-28. served Baal a little; but Jehu shall serve 5. Where are their heads put? 2, Study the event until you can tell it. 6. What does Jehu tell the people about Eiijah's liim much," they believe him, and all Memorize these facts about the event: prophecies? 3. come to the special inaugural colivention a. Jehu and Jonadab are in agreement . he is__ calling-. 0 64, Ahab's Descendants in Judah as to what Jehu has been doing. As to Jehu's wilful misrepresentation are also Killed b. Jehu invites him to go with him to witness his final act against the Ahab to get them all assembled, don't forget we program. are living in Old Testament times in this ASSIGNMENTS c. Jehu calls a great Baal convention in event when such is more acceptable than Samaria. it is in New Testament times. Other such 1. Read II Kings 10:12-14 and II Chron. d. Eighty armed men put every Baal- examples: Rahab's lying to her city 22:8. worshiper to death. autliorities about the two Israelite spies 2. Study the event until you can tell it. e. They brake the great image of Baal, 3. Memorize these facts about the event: she was then hiding (Josh. 2:3-6) and burn the lesser images, and ruin the a. Jehu meets Ahab's descendants of Michal lying to her father's messengers (I temple of Baal and make it into a Judah. Sam. 19:ll-17). public toilet. b. He orders all forty-two of them killed. The worshipers of Baal are happy as they come to Samaria from all parts ofthe COMMENTS COMMENTS kingdom for the great convention, €or it is to be an unprecedented convention e are here introduced to Jonadab ehu will not have to go into Judali in attended by every Baal-worshiper, and or Jehonadab, a Kenite. The order to wipe out Ahab's descendants with only seven thousand in Israel who Keiiites are mentioned as early as Gen. there, for he comes across tliein on have not been Baal-worshipers as recent J 15: 19. They have been friendly to Israel their way to visit their Northern Kingdom as Elijah's time, you can see it is going to all through tlie years. This is relatives. If they have not heard of tlie be quite a convention. Not only that, but understandable since Moses' father-in-law deaths of Jeliorain and Jezebel (the oiies it will be "death" for any Baal-worshiper was of the Keiiites (Judg. 1:16), This they were going to visit) nor of tlie death not attending. Kenite chieftain lias forbidden his of their own Ahaziah, it shows the There is no other way Jehu can wipe offspring to drink wine or to have a rapidity with which Jehu lias thus far out all Baal-worshipers. If he sends out 60 DIVIDEDKINGDOM HISTORY police to hunt them down, it would be 8 What else does Jehu destroy besides the generations (hunself and four generations worshipers? only partially successful. But since they What becomes of the house of Baal at of descendants). And God will keep His are invited by the new king, adit is Samaria? word to Jehu, for the following "death" if any does not come, they will all descendants will succeed him on the come, and it will take only one day to 66, Surprise: Jehu Continues throne of Israel: Jehoahaz (seventeen finish them all off whereas the hunt-them- Jeroboam's Calf-Worship years), Jehoash (sixteen years), Jeroboam out method would take months. I1 (forty-one years), and Zechariah (only So far Jehu's moves have been bold ASSIGNMENTS six months). With Jehu's reign lasting and lightning-fast. The same will be true 1. Read II Kings o:29-31. twenty-eight years, you can see his family in this event. 2, Study the event until you can tell it. will rule Israel a long time. vestments are issued to each 3. Memorize these facts about the event: worshiper (more "buttering Some a. Jehu does not depart from Northern QUESTIONS Jehovah-worshipers might be present just Kingdom calf-worship. 1 Recite the 2 memory-facts for this event Out Of Curiosity. Jehu's order to the Baal- b For executing God's wrath on the 2 what does ~cdpromise Jehu for his blottlng out the leaders to be sure there is no Jehovah- house of Ahab God promises the wicked Of 3 What is Jehu's attitude toward Jeroboam's calf- worshiper present will assure that no throne of Israel to Jehu's house for Jehovah-worshipers will be killed. five generations. To make sure his eighty door-guards 67, Athallah Usurps the Throne of allow none to escape, Jehu imposes the COMMENTS Judah death-sentence on any guard allowing any Baal-worshiper to get away. or a number of events (from the ASSIGNMENTS It appears Jehu himself officiates at anointing of Jehu till this present the altar. As soon as he completes the Fevent) it has looked as if the I. Read II Kings 11:l-3 and II Chron 22:lO- sacrifice, the captains begin the chaotic Kingdom will finally have a 12. slaughter. The helpless, unsuspecting, king who can be listed as "good"-one 2. Study the event Until YOU can tell it. defend itself against who is not following the calf-worship set 3. Memorize these facts about the event: mob a. Because King Ahaziah is dead, his Jehu's slaughter-crew, We might wonder up King Jeroboam when the mother Athaliah kills all the royal seed why Some don't head for the doors. They Kingdom began. But we are surely left and takes the throne of Judah for six probably do only to find them locked and puzzled after so many dramatic events in years. secured. Which Jehu has performed God's Will nOW b. She does not realize that Joash, The multitude of dead bodies, each to read, "Howbeit from the Sins Of Ahaziah's youngest son, IS alive and bloody from a sword wound or more, is Jeroboam the son Of Nebat, who made is being secretly brought up by the removed ~~remoniously,the great stone Israel to shJehu departed not from after high priest Jehoiada and his wife image of Baal is broken dowl, the them, to Wit, the golden Calves that were Jehosheba. burnable images of Baal are burned, and in Bethel, and that were in Dan." the house of Baal is so defaced that it no recorded in I1 Kings Or I1 COMMENTS longer looks like a temple, and its final Chron. imp1icates in disgachg is when it is made into a public wrongdoing. His OWn recorded statements o is this woman Athaliah who toilet. have been that God has been bringing dares to do this? She is the ~li,j&had killed four hundred and judgment on the house Of Ahab through Woffspring of that wicked couple fifty priests of Baal after his Mt. camel him (see 11 Kings 9:25,26; 11 Kings 9:36; of Israel, Ahab and Jezebel. She as contest, but that figure into 11 Kings 10:lo), but Sometime later when married to jehoshaphat's son khoram insignificance with the slaughter under God said in Hos. 1:4, "Yet a little while, Who ruled Judah eight Years before dying Jehu. and I will avenge the blood of Jezreel a violent death. After her husband died (where Jehu killed King Jehoram and and her son Ahaziah succeeded to the QUESTlOhlS Jezebel) upon the house of Jehu," it throne, She became the queen-mother in indicates Jehu's motives for what he did Judah. But now that Ahaziah has been 1 Recite the 5 memory-facts for this event 2 Who IS Jehonadab? were not Simon-pure. killed by Jehu, the queen-mother position 3 Does he agree with what Jehu IS doing? In spite of Jehu's allegiance to the will pass to Ahaziah's widow. This 4 What lnvltatlon does Jehu extend to Jhmidab? golden calves, God still appreciates his strong-willed, domineering Jezebel-of- 5 What does Jehu do that causes Baal-worshipers to think he is also one of them? getting rid of the wicked Ahab-line for the-South loses no time Sizing Up what 6 What charge does Jehu make to his eighty door- which He assures Jehu his family will has t0 be done immediately if she iS to be guards outside the convention temple? 7 When does the slaughter begin? occupy the throne of Israel for five DIVIDEDKINGDOM HISTORY anybody in the hture, So with no thought c. Athaliah learning of it shouts, The day conies, and the future of conscience she immediately puts to "Treasonl' monarch is brought Eorlh, a crown is put death all the royal seed that is leEt which d. She Is taken out and slain, on his head and a copy oE the law OE has already been greatly reduced by lier e, Jehoiada leads in renewing the Moses into his hands, lie is anointed, and husband's killing his brothers (I1 Clron, covenant for the people to worship the rejoicing people shout, "God save tlie Jehovah, king!'I 21:4), tlie Arabs having taken some OE f, The people rise up and destroy them captive sometime ago (I1 Chron, Baalism. Hearing the tumult in the temple 2 1: 17), and Jehu's so recently killing g, Jehoiada organizes the leadership for Athaliah rushes in to see what is taking forty-two of tlieni (I1 Kings 10:14). Even future progress, place. She can't believe her eyes as she though neither kingdom has ever liad a sees the young king near one of the pillars woman ruler, Judali now has this COMMENTS OE the temple and care€ully guarded, unworthy one wlio has even murdered Seeking to summon tlie help slie needs to some o€her own grandchildren to get the 'ow that tlie riglit€ul heir to the put down this uprising against lier rule, throne, But Judali submits to her out oE throne of Judah is seven years slie shouts, "Treason! Treason! 'I Isn't this fear rather than out of respect. N old, the priest Jehoiada thinks something €or her to be shouting when However, she is unaware of a lone tliere is no need to wait longer to slie herself has been iuling after pulling development that in six years will be her overthrow the usurper Athaliah and to an act of "treason" herself? undoing and death, A daughter of her enthrone the seed of David once more in But whoever might be in €avor o€ lier deceased husband Jehoram (Jehosheba) Jerusalem. Though Joash is young, do not come forlh to provide any help, for has providentially been able to save her Jehoiada himself will direct him as the they can see the opposing forces are infant nephew (Ahaziah's son) Joash from "power behind the throne". mobilized against lier cause. They remain the ambitious Athaliah. Josephus says But the priest must act with great silent as Jelioiada orders lier out o€ tlie Jeliosheba was the daughter of Jehoram precaution. Being in touch with many of temple where she is to be slain. Our guess by one of his other wives and not by tlie prominent men of Judah, lie already is if any set of guards ever took into Athaliali. She is married to the godly knows who are anti-Atlialiah in their custody a hollering, kicking, wild woman, priest Jehoiada who is also willing to risk sentiments. Since he will need the it was Jehoiada's inen who took her out to his own safety in an attempt to save an involvement of a number of people to her death. She comes to as abrupt an end offspring o€ David for the Jerusalem make tlie power-change, he secretly as her wicked inotlier Jezebel did at throne. The little prince grows up in tlie gathers together those who are of the Jezreel at the hands of Jehu. absolute privacy of one of tlie secret areas same mind as he, Among them are five It has been sometime since Judah has of the temple. God sees that the light of captains of hundreds (Azariah, Ishmael, liad a Jehovah-worshiping ruler, so David is not put out, and his seed will another Azariah, Maaseiah, and Jehoiada renews the covenant between soon be back on lis tlrone in Jerusalem. Elishaphat). They are surely both Judah and Jehovah on that day. One of surprised and pleased to learn what tlie first things the people do in QUESTIONS Jelioiada and his wife have done. They are consequence of tlie covenant is to go 1. Recite the 2 memory-facts for this event. glad the seed o€ David is still represented break down tlie house of Baal, destroy tlie 2. Identify Athaliah. among them, and they too are determined altars and images to Baal, and kill the 3. How does she gel the throne of Judah? lie shall be proclaimed king. Baal priest Mattan. 4. How long wili she usurp il? 5. What infanl escapes her bloody deeds? The next step is for these to go Now Jehoiada reinstates tlie teniple 6. Who rears him? throughout Judah with the same worship as David had it set up and 7. Where does he live while growing up? precaution Jehoiada has exercised to get according to tlie law of tlie Lord. And the amount of people ready when the day pleasure o€the people over tlie change is 68, A BopKing for Judah an comes, Less suspicion will arise if it well stated when it says, "All the people ASSIGNMENTS occurs on the sabbath when the people of tlie land rejoiced: and tlie city was come together and when special guards quiet, a€ter that they had slain Atlialiali 1. Read II Kings 11:4-12:l and Ii Chron. will be on duty. with tlie sword," 231-24: 1, In preparation for tlie coronation Thanks to the godly priest Jehoiada 2, Study the event until you can tell it. Jelioiada issues arms and weapons from and his good wife Jehosheba, who did 3. Memorize these facts about the event: David's day, guards are assigned to what needed to be done though nobody a. Jehoiada and those in whom he strategic places, a special guard is to be knew they were doing it, and who confides plan the overthrow of set around young Joash in the temple, and exercised both patience and wisdom until Athaliah and the coronation of young instructions are given to kill anybody who the time came to act. Because of them a Joash. new era has dawned on the life of tlie b. Joash is crowned king. interferes. 62 DIVIDEDKINGDOM HISTORY

Southern Kingdom. We, like Jehoiada and thing to be able to influence others just as Athaliah, that wicked woman, had broken his wife, need to see what should be done Jehoiada does here. Yet one's influence is up the house of God; and also all the and do it, and we shall see that God may usually more powerful while he is living dedicated things of the house of the Lord use us to bring in either better things or a than after he is dead. In this connection did they bestow upon Baalim" (I1 Chron. better day! the great leader Joshua called on the 24:7). In other words they plundered the nation to follow his example of temple of whatever could be used in their QUESTIONS worshiping Jehovah (Josh. 24:15), and temple of Baal. Again we witness the far-

1. Recite the 7 memory-facts for this event his influence remained over the nation as reaching effects of the Ahab-reign, and 2. How old is Joash now? long as he lived and as long as the leaders much of it is traceable to his marriage to 3. Who plans the Of Athallah and the who served under lived (Josh. 24:3 1). Jezebel. Sometimes a single decision will enthronement of Joash? him 4. Who helps him plan that event? Mention is again made about the "high affect many lives over many years of 5. What day of the week will it take place? places". We would judge they are not time. How important, then, for us to 6. Tell of the actual coronation of Joash 7. What does Athaliah declare it to be? being used for idolatrous purposes but in consult the Lord in all matters of 8. What order does Jehoiada give concerning her? time to come will be. It would be good if decision, be they considered by us little or 9. What covenant does Jehoiada lead in renewing? they were removed under Joash as they great decisions! 10. Tell of the destruction of Baalism that day 11 What else does Jehoiada do as the new regime later will be under King Hezekiah, for in In the years that Joash has been gets underway? Hezekiah's time they will be used growing up, why has not the high priest 12. What is the attitude of the people over the power- change? idolatrously (I1 Kings 18:4). Jehoiada repaired the temple? "Clarke" explains it by judging Jehoiada to be a 69, The Continuing Power of QUESTIONS man of piety instead of zeal: "Though Jeholiada 1 Recite the 2 memory-facts for this event Jehoiada was a good man, he does not 2 How many wives does Jehoiada take for Joash? appear to have had much of the spirit of 3 What is said of the character of Joash's reign ASSIGNMENTS an active zeal; and simple piety without throughout the days of Jehoiada? 4 Were the high places removed under Joash? zeal and activity is of little use when a 1. Read II Kings 12:2,3 and /I Chron. 24:2,3. reformation in religion and manners is 2. Study the event until you can tell it. 70, Joash Repairs the Temple necessary to be brought about." And then 3. Memorize these facts about the event: for those with a knowledge of church a. As long as Jehoiada lives, King Joash ASSIGNMENTS history he illustrates, "Philip Melancthon does that which is right. was orthodox, pious, and learned, but he b. Jehoiada takes two wives for Joash by 1. Read II Kings 124-16 and II Chron. 24:4- whom are born sons and daughters. was a man of comparative inactivity. In 14. many respects Martin Luther was by far 2. Study the event until you can tell it. his inferior, but in zeal and activity he COMMENTS 3. Memorize these facts about the event: a. Joash plans to repair the temple and was a flaming and consuming fire; and by he great high priest Jehoiada will makes arrangements for income by him...was the mighty Reformation from live about one-half of Joash's long which to do it. the corruptions of popery affected. Ten forty-year reign. Until Joash is old b. When his plan for collecting the thousand Jehoiadas and Melancthons enough to assume the responsibilities of money fails, he puts a money chest in might have wished it in vain; Luther his kingly office, Jehoiada continues to the temple for the people's freewill worked, and God worked by him." offerings. But "Smith" is more gracious in his direct the ship of state. In the meantime c. Now with money in abundance the he, like a father in these patriarchal times, approach, admitting it is strange Jehoiada work gets underway. has not made the needed repairs, but takes two wives for Joash, who bear him d. With the money left over they an unrecorded number of sons and replenish the vessels of the temple. supposing he must have had a good daughters. From a later account we know reason €or not doing it. one of his sons was named Amaziah and COMMENTS Either writer's view might be the one of his wives Jehoaddan-Amaziah's correct one, but at this distance it remains mother (I1 Kings 14:1,2), hetakes its toll on any structure, a mystery. At any rate now that Joash is As long as Jehoiada lives, Joash is and Solomon's temple has stood old enough to take hold of the reigns, we greatly influenced by the godly man who for a century and a half, and as far are glad to see him undertake the great has brought him up and set him on the as the divine record goes there has been project. throne of David. As we shall see later, no major repairing of it. But besides the It will take much money for the under the influence of others he will natural deterioration of time, the temple project. Men will have to be hired to depart from the right way (I1 Chron. has suffered great damage from the quarry the stones, and others will have to 25: 17,18). Let us observe it is a great family of Athaliah: "The sons of be employed to do the actual repair work. DIVIDEDKINGDOM HISTORY 63

The three sources o€ revenue to be accounting is required of them, With tlie in€ooniiation, Jehu's entombment is cliaiiiieled for this purpose ineiitioned in repairing of the temple the last vestige of likewise oii Saniaria's hill, I1 IGiigs 12:4 are explained by "Barnes" tlie wicked Atlialiah is overcome, as follows: ''Three kinds of sacred iiioiiey QUESTIONS QUESTIONS are here distinguished-first, the bal€ 1. Recite the 2 memory-facts for this event shekel required in the Law (Exo, 30:13) I Recite the 4 memory-facts lor tlils event 2. How long does Jehu reign? 3. Who I6 hls military adversary in his latter years? to be paid by every one above twenty 2 What is the condition of the temple at this time? 4. What territory does he iose to him? years of age when he passed tlie 3 Why is it in thls condition? 4 From what sources is the money to come? 6. Does the Bible credit Jehu with being a powerful numbering; secondly, tlie money to be 6 What is upsetting to Joash? king? paid by such as had devoted themselves, 6 Where does he finally gel the money? 6, Where Is he buried? or those belonging to tliein, by vow to 78, Syria Giver Jehoahaz Trouble Jehovah, wliicli was a variable sum 71, Jehu's Last Years are Troublous dependent on age, sex, and property (Lev, ASSIGNMENTS 27:2-8);and thirdly, the money o€€eredin ASSIGNMENTS the way of fke-will o€€erings.'I According 1, Read II Kings 13:7. to Clwon. 245 Joash orders tlie priests I1 1. Read II Kings 10:32-36. 2, Study the event until you can tell it. and Levites to go out into the cities of 2. Study the event until you can tell It. 3, Memorize these facts about the event: a. Because Jehoahaz perpetuates calf- Judali and collect this money. 3. Memorize these facts about the event: Since we do not lwow which year of a. Hazael of Syria takes away Jehu's worship, God sends Syria against him in both Hazael's and Ben-hadad's Joash's reign he instituted this repair- territory east of the Jordan. program, we do not know how long it has b. After reigning twenty-eight years Jehu reigns. dies and is buried in Samaria. b. The oppressed Jehoahaz prays to been since he authorized the priests and Jehovah who grants peace once more Levites to go forth collecting the money to Israel. when I1 Kings 12:6 records, "But it was COMMENTS so, tliat in the three and twentieth year of COMMENTS king Jelioash the priests liad not repaired eliu has liad a long reign-one of the longest for a Northern Kingdom the breaches of the house," And vr7hy have eliu's line is to have the throne of king. This may be due to his having they not done it? Our judgment is one of J Israel for five generations for liis abolished Baal-worship. But now in his two reasons: either they are accustomed destruction of Baal-worship , With latter years God begins to cut him short. J to the temple being as it is and are content his death his son Jelioahaz comes to the He loses much (maybe all) of his territory to let matters remain as they are instead throne as the second generation. We note east of tlie Jordan where the tribes of having to do so much extra work, or it is tlie 23rd year of Joash of tlie South. Reuben, Gad, and one-half of Maiiasseli Joash does not possess strong leadership This is the year Joash gets concerned the live, Gilead is the soutliern part (from tlie qualities in which case he can give orders temple repairing has not been done (I1 Jabbok on the north to tlie Arnon on tlie that others do not fear not carrying out. Kings 12:6ff). "Edersheim" tliinks the south). Bashan is tlie northern part (from But the king is stirred up over the inroads Hazael is making in Israel as the Jabbok on the south to Syria on tlie neglect, and he reprimands Jehoiada and divine judgments is hastening Joash to north). Various writers marvel at Jehu's the priests about the matter. The last of I1 finish the temple project lest God's "might" being mentioned when his only Kings 12:7 sounds as if the priests have displeasure likewise befalls liis kingdom. military record €ound in the Bible actually utilized the money for themselves Hazael, as you may recall, took away tlie concerns his territory losses to Hazael of instead o€ Joash's project. territory east of the Jordan from Syria. But later we will study about At this time Joash and Jelioiada put a Jelioahaz's €ather Jehu. Now he and his another Northern Kingdom king (another money chest (a box with a hole in its top) son Ben-hadad continue to weaken Israel Jeroboam) who reigned 4 1 years, yet his €or the convenience of tlie people, and until it is virtually powerless, leaving it reign is covered in I1 Kings in only 7 much money is received every day, This only enough horsemen (fi€ty), chariots verses (14:23-29). Both of these kings money is used to hire wood workers and (ten), and €oot soldiers (ten thousand) to have powerful to rule long, stone masons and to buy materials for the to be so so mock Israel. The prophet Elisha foresaw your writer's judgment is that both have project. Ilow die people rejoice to help years ago Hazael would become a cruel triumphs not recorded in the Biblical and see the work being done, and people king (I1 Kings 8:7-12), and this event account. I€ we had the archives of tlie are 110 different today. Those who are records some of his cruel acts: lie makes Norlliern Kingdom (referred to in v. 34 as handling tlie money are men of such Israel "like the dust by threshing". Amos the "book of the Chronicles of the Kings reputation that with the money left over, 1:3 says these Syrians (Damascus) of Israel"), we would no doubt find such vessels are made for the temple, and no "threshed Gilead with threshing 64 DIVIDEDKINGDOM HISTORY instruments of iron". "Barnes" notes this reared. Because of asserting the power of QUESTIONS is the "literal use of threshing-instruments a king to Judah during Joash's growing- 1. Recite the 3 memory-lacts for this event. in the execution of prisoners of war". up years, he is entombed royally at 2. How old is Jehoiada when he dies? Such warfare and reduction of Israel's Jerusalem. 3. Tell of his burial. 4. What change in Judah comes in after his death? power humble Jehoahaz, causing him to Writers struggle for a plausible 5. How does God correct Judah? do what few Northern Kings ever did explanation as to why Joash would ("Jehoahaz besought the Lord"), and the change at the instigation of the princes of 74, Another Joash Becomes King divine record says, "The Lord hearkened Judah following Jehoiada's death. But if in the North unto him." Possibly in Jehoahaz's day, in he has been under the fostering influence answer to his prayer, God gives relief of Jehoiada all his life, he is a "sitting ASSIGNMENTS from further aggression by Syria. The duck", so to speak, to be influenced by "saviour'' God gave to Israel so they somebody else after Jehoiada is gone. An 1. Read II Kings 13:8-11. "went out from under the hand of the important lesson in parenthood is found 2. Study the event until you can tell it. Syrians" and dwelt peacefully as in olden in Joash's case. To begin with, a parent 3. Memorize these facts about the event: a. After Jehoahaz of Israel dies, his son times (17.5)was realized under Jehoahaz's makes all the decisions for the child. Joash succeeds him as king. son Jehoash: "Jehoash the son of When the child grows up, marries, and b. He WIII reign for the next sixteen Jehoahaz took again out of the hand of has his own home, he-not the years. Ben-hadad the son of Hazael the cities father-will be making all his decisions, c. Like all Northern Kingdom rulers he which he had taken out of the hand of Now between the time when a father continues Jeroboam's calf-worship. Jehoahaz his father by war. Three times makes all Ihe decisions and later when he did Joash beat him, and recovered the will relinquish all the leadership to the COMMENTS cities of Israel" (I1 Kings 13:25). mature son, the father must gradually and carefully allow his maturing child to make he death of King Jehoahaz after QUESTIONS whatever decisions he is old enough and ruling Israel for seventeen years mature enough to male, being watchful, brings his son Joash to power for 1. Recite the 4 memory-facts for this event. T 2. How long does Jehoahaz rule Israel? of course, that the child is making the the next sixteen years. Since he is 3. Who was ruling in Judah when he began? right decisions, Thus his child develops beginning in the thirty-seventh year of 4. Who oppresses israel in Jehoahaz's day? 5. How little military does Jehcahaz have left? individual responsibility and leadership, King Joash of the South, both kingdoms 6. In what way does he humble himself before God? and he is not so easily influenced by more now have a Joash ruling them, but not for dominant personalities as Joash is in this long as Joash of Judah is in his latter 73, Apostasy Sets in after event. years. Both are also called "Jehoash", Jeholada's Death The immediateness with which this which can further add to a casual reader's switch in policy takes place reminds us of confusion. Joash of the north will also ASSIGNMENTS Paul's words to the Galatians: "I marvel follow the calf-worship at Dan and Bethel. 1. Read II Chron. 24:15-19. that ye are so soon removed from him 2. Study the event until you can tell it. that called you into the grace of Christ QUESTIONS 3. Memorize these facts about the event: unto another gospel" (Gal 1:6), All this is a. Jehoiada dies at one hundred thirty. a serious reminder that people who are 1. Recite the 3 memory-facts for this event. b. Princes of Judah persuade Joash to right at this time may be wrong later, and 2. Who is ruling in the South at this time? restore idolatry. 3. What does Joash of the North do about calf- that those who are godly today may worship? c. Displeased, God sends prophets become wicked in days to come. whose rebukes are disregarded, "The eyes of the LORD are in every 75, Reverses Come on Judah's place, beholding the evil and the good'' Joash to His End COMMENTS (Prov 15:3), and His face is against those who do evil (I Pet. 3: 12). If Judah will not ASSIGNMENTS od has blessed the godly priest follow God's law, He will send prophets Jehoiada with long life, which is to correct them and show them their sins 1. Read iI Chron. 24:20-27 and II Kings one of God's promises to those (cf. Isa. 58:1). The prophets God sends to 12117-21. who, like Jehoiada, exalt wisdom (Prov. rebuke Joash and the princes are brazenly 2. Study the event until you can tell it. 3:13,16). Even after passing the disregarded. Could any of these prophets 3. Memorize these facts about the event: prescribed age for serving as priest, he a. The priest Zechariah who publicly be among those who wrote Old opposes Judah's idolatry is ordered has been a bolstering influence for good Testament books? We are not told. on King Joash whom he and his wife killed by Joash. DIVIDED KINGDOM HISTORY 65

b. Zechariah's dying words are, 'The Did God immediately send prophets to 9. What honor is denied Joash in his burial? Lord look upon it, and require it.' rebuke them? Again it would seem He C. Hazael of Syria comes against did, It would even seem when Judah did 76, Judah's New King Eweeutes Jerusalem, kills the princes, and not listen to tlie prophets, the priest His Father's Assassins spares the city when Joash pays him Zechariah would immediately speak up, ASSIGNMENTS off with temple and palace treasures. But somewhere in these there is a time- d. They leave him a very sick man. e. Joash's servants conspire against him break, and your writer is arbitrarily 1. Read II Kings 14:1-6 and II Chron. 231- and kill him in his bed, placing it between tlie prophets' rebuking 4. f. He is buried in Jerusalem but not Judah and Zechariah rebuking them (this 2. Study the event until you cqn tell it. among the kings. event), The break may have come at 9. Memorize these facts about the event: another time, but it appears that a series a, The twenty-five-year-old Amazlah COMMENTS of fast-nioving events proceeds from succeeds his assassinated father. Zechariah's death through God's bringing b. He will reign In Judah for the next echariah as a godly successor to Syria (that is in neighboring Philistia) twentynine years. against Judah that very year that killed c. He executes his father's assassins but the deceased Jehoiada is moved by not their children. God's Spirit to stand on ai1 Joash's evil counselors (the princes), elevated place in the temple as he publicly plundered the treasures of the temple and COMMENTS reprimands the people for their idolatry, the palace, and left him in great diseases King Joash is involved in the conspiracy (New International Version says, s Amaziah takes the throne of that kills the preaching priest. In thus "Seriously wounded"), and in his helpless Judali, lie has witnessed Syria's murdering tlie son (or maybe grandson) condition upon his bed lie is killed by a Adefeats of his father and its of the very priest who rescued him as an conspiracy by Zabad (Jozacliar), the son helping itself to the temple and palace infant from the murderous Athaliah, of a Ammonite woman Shinieatli, and treasures, followed by the sickness and Joash shows extreme ingratitude toward Jehozabad, the son of a Moabite woman assassination of his father, The Jehoiada as well as defiance toward God. Shiinritli. When God has decreed the expression, "As soon as the kingdom was And in having him killed in the temple, he doom of a wicked person like Joash, confirmed in his hand," suggests there does not show the respect for tlie temple escape is impossible-much as Amos were some problems for a time in his Jehoiada did in commanding Athaliah to 5 : 19 says, "As if a man did flee from a establishing his kingship. He does not be taken out of the temple before being lion, and a bear met him; or went into the execute his father's assassins until lie is killed (II Kings 11 : 13- 16). Jesus refers to house, and leaned his hand on the wall, well established as the new king. "Clarke" this terrible event in Matt. 23:35, and a serpent bit him." "Clarke" gives a suggests, "No doubt those wicked We note the dying words of Zechariah: graphic summary of Joash: "This man, so men.,.who murdered his father had "The Lord look upon it, and require it." promising in the beginning of his reign, considerable power and influence, and Since Judah will not regard God's law nor apostatized, became an idolater, therefore he found it dangerous to bring listen to His prophets but kills His priest, encouraged idolatry among his subjects, them to justice till he was assured of thq God sends tlie Syrians against Judah this and put the high priest Zechariah, the son loyalty of his other officers." It is very year who destroy the princes who of Jehoiada his benefactor, to death: and especially mentioned that he, in executing persuaded Joash to turn idolatrous and now God visited that blood upon him by his father's assassins, did not put their take their spoil, accomplishing this by a the hands of tlie tyrannous king of Syria, children to death. This is mentioned smaller army than Judah's because God is and by his own servants," Joash's because it was contrary to the prevailing chastising Judah by them, As Judah sees shameful, dishonorable end is followed practice of those times and also to the tide of battle tmi against them, you by not being buried among tlie sepulchers indicate his obedience to God's wonder if they don't recall tlie dying of the kings--all this because lie has instructions in the matter: "The fathers priest's words: "Lord, look upon it, and walked in the "counsel of the ungodly" shall not be put to death for the children, require it. 'I (cf. Psa, 1:l). neither shall the children be put to death Where to place tlie speech and death for the fathers: every man shall be put to QUESTIONS of the priest Zechariah is a difficult death for his own sin" (Deut. 24:16). problem in harmonizing Kings and 1. Recite the 6 memory-faots for this event. When it says, "He did that which was Chronicles. In Event 12 we studied about 2. Tell of Zechariah's speeoh. right in the sight of the Lord, yet not like Joash's apostasy after Jelioiada died. Did 3. Who orders Zechariah killed? 4. Where is he killed? David his father: lie did according to all the princes come immediately and put 6. What are his dying words? things as Joash his father did," the first pressure on him to restore idolatrous 6. What trouble befalls Joash before yeats-end? 7. In what condition do the Syrians leave him? two statements show he was an admixture worship? It is usually thought they did. 6. How does Joash die? 66 DIVIDEDKINGDOM HISTORY

of good and evil, this mixture being a Joash's time, but the prophet had Thus comes to a close the unusual cany-over of his father--as is so often the remained an honored man in Israel ever visit of a king of Israel to one of God's case. So many times "children learn what since. When he calls him "my father", you greatest prophets. they live" with. "Smith" makes an can see his desire to be associated with interesting comparison between him and the good man. QUESTIONS

his father: (1) both began better than they The aged prophet is moved by the 1. Recite the 3 memory-facts for this event. ended, being Jehovah-worshipersto begin Lord, probably in response to the king's 2. Why does the king of Israel pay Elisha a visit? with but idolatrous later; (2) both resisted honoring Elisha, to promise Joash some 3. How does he address the great prophet? 4. Elisha promised him victory over what country? a prophet who rebuked them; (3) both victories like those he has heard about. It 5. How many times will he defeat that country? knew defeat in war and paid off their will be victories over Israel's constant 8. What displeased God about the king on this visit? conquerors with temple and palace foe--Syria. Remember that Syria had treasures; and (4) both were assassinated. greatly reduced Israel in the days of his 78, A Most Unusual Miracle father (I1 Kings 13:3-7). What a welcome QUESTIONS prophecy that God will give him ASSIGNMENTS deliverance from Syria! The manner of 1. Recite the 3 memory-facts for this event. 1. Read II Kings 13:20,21. 2. When did Amaziah execute his father's assassins? delivering the prophecy is interesting--the 3. What law of Moses did he especially regard in the 2. Study the event until you can tell it. matter? prophet placing his hands on the king's 3. Memorize these facts about the event: 4. How does the Bible speak of his goodness? hands on the bow and the arrow as he a. Sometime after Elisha's death the 5. What were some of the comparisons between him shoots an arrow eastward toward Aphek Moabites invade the land. and his father and their reigns? where Joash will defeat the Syrians. God b. A funeral entourage spots a nearby has in mind Joash's smiting "the Syrians Moabite band and decides to lay the 77, Israel's King Joash Visits the corpse in Elisha's sepulchre. Ailing Elisha in Aphek until thou have consumed them", but in the second phase of the c. The dead man is immediately resurrected. ASS IGNM ENTS prophecy (where Joash is told to smite the ground probably shoot arrows into the COMMENTS 1. Read II Kings 13:14-19. ground), he smites only three times which 2. Study the event until you can tell it. would evidently not be enough to destroy 3. Memorize these facts about the event: Syria. Because of the brevity of the tis evidently not long after the king's a. Joash honorably visits Elisha in his account and not knowing exactly the mind visit that Elisha dies and is entombed final illness. of King Joash, it is difficult to know that I(Josephus says with great pomp). b. Elisha promises the king three Joash should have smitten the ground Sometime afterwards marauding bands of victories over Syria instead of three Moabites come across the Jordan to complete destruction. more than times. Evidently he would be satisfied merely to subdue Syria and plunder--in the Spring when the field grains are ripening. One day as a funeral COMMENTS drive them out of his land instead of destroying it as a nation. If so, he is but party is carrying a man to his burial, one perpetuating the trait of Israel that was of these enemy bands is nearby. The king paying a visit to a dying funeral procession cannot proceed, and prophet? A king of the Northern satisfied to settle in Canaan and subject the pagan nations instead of destroying noticing Elisha's sepulchre they AKingdom? When he respectfully temporarily lay the dead body in it only to them as God had willed (Judg. 1:27-33). calls Elisha "my father, the chariot of have it resurrected by contact with the Israel and the horsemen thereof," he is It is an all too frequent failure of God's people to settle for less than He has prophet's remains. There is no other calling him the same that Elisha called miracle in the Bible like this, and it Elijah immediately after his translation (I1 willed whether it be in their own spiritual attainment or in their evangelistic climaxes a great miracle-performing Kings 2: 12). When he says, "0my father, career of Elisha. my father," he speaks with accomplishments. Let each of us pause at our next time of personal prayer and feeling-probably because of the nearing- QUESTIONS death of the prophet. When he calls him ascertain in what categories we are too much like King Joash and Israel! 1. Recite the 3 memory-facts for this event. "the chariot of Israel and the horsemen 2. Bands from what neighboring country are a scourge thereof", he is referring to the previous Verse 25 of this chapter (I1 Kings 13) to Israel at this time? military victgries enjoyed by Israel shows the prophecy was fulfilled exactly 3. What is the occasion of putting a strange body into as prophesied. The deliverance under Elisha's sepulchre? because of Elisha's divine help. Instances: 4. What happens? I1 Kings 3:9-25; 6:8-12; 6:13-23; Joash was also propliesied in the days of 6:24-7: 16, All these were before King his father Jehoahaz, Joash 'being the 79, Israel Recovers Its Cities "saviour" mentioned in I1 Kings 13:5. beyond the Jordan DIVIDEDKINGDOM HISTORY 67

QUESTiONS show their feelings by taking their ASSIGNMENTS I. Recite the 3 memory-facts for this event, vengeance on several cities of Judah (both 2, Why I6 this aocount of victories over Syria placed in killing and plundering), The battle 1, Read II Kings 13:22-25, immediately after Elisha's prophecy concerning them? against Edom begins in the unidentified 3, What king 01 Syria had most recently taker) these 2. Study the event until you can tell it. Valley of' Salt in Edom's rock-forkess 3, Memorize these facts about the event: israelite cities from Israel? 4. From what king of Israel had he taken them? Petra, which Amaziah takes. In the battle a. After Hazael of Syria dies, his son 5. What king of israei recovers them? Ben-hadad replaces him. 6. From what king of Syria'? ten thousand Edomites are killed and b. Joash defeats Ben-hadad three times another ten thousand are taken and are and recovers Israel's cities east of the 80, Amaziah has a Great Victory ruthlessly thrown 6-om the top of the rock Jordan, over Edam bluff to their deaths below, Those who have been to Petra can visualize this from COMMENTS ASSIGNMENTS the setting, From the spoils of tlie battle are saved iy are these verses split off 1. Read II Chron, 251-16 and II Kings 14:7. the gods (images) of the Edomites, and froni Joash's visit to Elisha in 2. Study the event until you can tell it, King Ainaziah bows down before them which Elisha predicted the 3, Memorize these facts about the event: and burns incense to them, Tit, 3:3 w a. Amaziah musters a large army, victories recorded here? Probably because including some hired soldiers from the connects "disobedience" and there is a break in time between the Northern Kingdom, to go against "€oolislmessi',and we can surely see this prediction and tlie fulfillment, In the Edom, is Amaziah's foolishly and disobediently interval Elisha dies, the miracle of a b. A prophet instructs him to send the worshiping the 1iEeless objects that could resurrection takes place, and the Syrian Israelite soldiers home, who plunder not deliver their former worshipers out of king Hazael who has troubled Israel for on their way home. his own hands. God whom he should so many years dies. It is under lis son c. Amaziah defeats the Edomites. worship and who gave him the victory Ben-liadad that the deliverance under over Edom is angry with Amaziah for this Joasli comes, God had not allowed COMMENTS and sends an unnamed prophet to rebuke Hazael to destroy the Northern Kingdom him,But he does not listen to the prophet, because of His regard for His covenant udah will also seek to recover its lost so the prophet tells him of his coming with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. When it domination over Edom that lay to its doom, says, "Neither cast he them from his Jsouth. In the wicked days of King presence as yet," there is an intimation Jehoram (around forty years ago) Edom QUESTIONS revolted from under the hand of Judah (I1 that in time God will forget about the 1. Recite the 3 memory-facts for this event. covenant which they had long-ago broken Kings 8:20). Now King Amaziah 2. How many soldiers of Judah are in Amaziah's army? and allow the Northern Kingdom to be contemplates bringing Edom back under 3. How many more does he hire out of Israel? 4. What does the prophet tell him to do about the destroyed. He will spare it for seventy- Judah's control. God can give him victory latter? eigllcy years through the reigns of several without the help of the one hundred 5. What do they do when they go home? thousand soldiers hired from Israel. When 6. Give some of the deiaiis of Amaziah's victory over more kings. Edom. It may be helpful for you to lcnow that Amaziah obediently refuses to let them go 7.0. How does Amaziah act very foolishly after this Syria had three kings in this order: Ben- with him even though lie has already paid victory? them a fair sum, we can be sure God will What Is his response to a prophet's rebuke? hadad, Hazael, another Ben-hadad. The 0. What is the prophet's final word to him? first Ben-liadad was suffocated by his bless His campaign against Edom, In the servant Hazael (I1 Kings 8:7-15).Hazael conversation between Amaziah and God's 81. Amaziah Picks a Fight with for some reason named lis son Ben- prophet notice two significant statements: Israel liadad, (1) "God hath power to help, and to cast Those cities east of the Jordan are in a down," His help will be greater than the ASSIGNMENTS war-zone between Israel and Syria. In dismissed one hundred thousand soldiers. recent times Hazael has taken them from If the king doesn't obey the order, God is 1. Read II Kings 14:8-14 and II Chron. Jehoahaz as a punishment from God. able to overthrow him. (2) When the king 25:17-24. Now they are taken back by Jelioaliaz's complains lie has already paid the 2. Study the event until you can tell it. Israelites, he is told, "The Lord is able to 3. Memorize the event until you can tell It, son Joash from Hazael's son Ben-hadad a. Amaziah's counselors advise him to in fulfillment of Elisha's prophecy to give thee much more than this." We need challenge Israel to battle. Joash in I1 Kings 13:19. The Bible does to believe when we do right, God will b. The king of Israel tries to persuade not include a record of these battles by bless us. Obviously tlie soldiers who are Amaziah not to engage in a battle. which Israel recovers the cities, told they cannot go do not like it and c. Amaziah will not be persuaded. 68 DIVIDEDKINGDOM HISTORY

d. They clash at Bethshemesh in Judah, 2 What motives may Amaziah have had in challenging Jeroboam 11's reign is not only long and Amaziah is defeated. israel to battle? 3 Does Jehoash really want to fight? but powerful. He completes regaining all e. Before going home the king of Israel 4 Narrate his fable the territory east of the Jordan that was destroys six hundred feet of 5 Where does the battle take place? begun under Jehoahaz (I1 Kings 13:25), Jerusalem's wall and plunders Judah's 6 Why does Amaziah lose this battle when he won the treasures. battle with Edom? restoring all the land east of the Jordan 7 What damage does Jehoash do to Jerusalem? fiom Hamath in the far north to the Dead 8 What plunder does Jehoash take? COMMENTS Sea in the south ("the sea of the plain"). 82, A Second Jeroboam Becomes Hardly any writer or teacher in here are several lines of thought King in the North considering the predictioiis of doom of that will soon converge in a battle the Northern Kingdom found in the book Tbetween Judah and Israel. As ASSIGNMENTS of Amos, written in Jeroboam 11's day Amaziah returns from his victory over when Israel was so strong and Edom, he feels triumphant--ready to 1. Read II Kings 14:15,16,23,24. prosperous, fails to note that Amos's challenge anybody to battle. He either 2. Study the event until you can tell it. prediction seemed so impossible. Amos remembers or has just heard about the 3. Memorize these facts about the event: called them, "Ye that put far away the evil a. After Jehoash dies, his son Jeroboam day" (Amos 6:3), referring to the calamity pillaging done by the Israelite soldiers becomes king of Israel. who were not permitted to go with him to to come on them. b. This powerful king has a forty-one When did Jonah make the prediction fight Edom. He is ready to retaliate. He year reign. issues a challenge to Jehoash, king of the of Jeroboam 11's military success--before he was sent to Nineveh or afterwards? North. At the same time God's COMMENTS displeasure with Amaziah for bringing Though the end of the book of Jonah leaves the reader wondering how he back Edom's idols is needing a way to e know nothing of Jehoash's responded to rebuking question chasten him. He will have it in the reign following his significant God's proposed battle. It is obvious that victory over Amaziah. His (see Jon. 4:9-ll), it is your writer's W understanding that Jonah responded Jehoash does not want to fight as much as death and entombment at Samaria Amaziah, reflected in his suggesting that enthrone his son Jeroboam as Israel's new favorably. And so it is possible that his Amaziah stay home and savor his recent king. Don't confuse this Jeroboam with prediction referred to in our present account could have been made even after victory over Edom rather than fight with Israel's first king who set up the golden his trip to Nineveh. him and lose. Jehoash's fable about the calves at Dan and Bethel. This Jeroboam thistle, the cedar, and the wild boar is no is usually called Jeroboam I1 for QUESTIONS compliment to Amaziah. When it is distinguishing purposes. His forty-one obvious to Jehoash that Amaziah is not to years on tHe throne will make him the 1. Recite the 2 memory-facts for this event. 2. Where is Hamath? be dissuaded fkom fighting, he chooses to longest ruling king of Israel. 3. What is "the sea of the plain"? attack rather than be attacked by going 4. When might Jonah have made this prediction in into Judah with his army. The two armies QUESTIONS relation to his going to Nineveh? clash at ancient Bethshemesh southwest 1 Recite the 2 memory-facts for this event 84, Ameziah Becomes Judeh's of Jerusalem. And God delivers Amaziah 2 Study the event until you can tell it into Jehoash's hand. Amaziah is 3 How long is Jeroboam's reign in comparison with Second Assassinated King powerless to stop his conqueror from the reigns of other kings of Israel? ASSIGNMENTS breaking down four hundred cubits (six 83, Jeroboam again Regains hundred feet) of Jerusalem's north wall, Cities beyond Jordan 1. Study II Kings 14:17-20 and II thus destroyingthe military defense of the C hron.25:25-28. city. Nor can he keep Jehoash from ASSIGNMENTS 2. Study the event until you can tell it. helping himself to the temple treasures, 3. Memorize these facts about the event: Amaziah's own treasures, and some of the 1. Read I1 Kings 14:25-27. a. Amaziah outlives Jehoash by fifteen people of Judah whom he took with him. 2. Study the event until you can tell it. years. Again we see the truthfulness of the 3. Memorize these facts about the event: b. He is assassinated by his servants. proverb, "The way of the transgressor is a. Jeroboam regains territory to Israel. hard" (Prov. 13:15). b. God grants this victory according to a COMMENTS prophecy by Jonah.

QUESTIONS Jehoash may have defeated Amaziah COMMENTS and exercised authority over him, but 1. Recite the 5 memory facts for this event. both 11 Kings and I1 Chron: take note that DIVIDED KINGDOMHISTORY 69

Amaziali outlived Jehoash by IiEteen reign o€ fiftytwo years both kingdoms wall, builds towers on the wall, and years somewhat in the spirit of Eccl, 9:4 enjoy a long stretch of political stability. invents engines €or shooting arrows and ("A living dog is betler than a dead lion"). "Smitli" in his excellent commentary on I catapult stones. We do not know how And Amaziah miglit live longer except and I1 Kings calls it "tlie heyday period", large the stones are that they shot, but that some of his servants assassinate liim, and attributes it principally to the catapult stones to be seen today in tlie 11 Clroii, notes that things have gone bad Assyrians being in a period o€ military ruins o€ Masada and tlie Herodium are €or him ever since lie turned away from dormancy, Helping Uzziah also is the around tlie size of a bushel basket, followiiig Jehovah in the matter o€ tlie blessing o€ God realized because he is Because lie had livestock in various Edomite idols, Many since Amaziah have influenced to do good by the prophetic places, he digs many wells and builds found tlie same thing--that life can be visions of one Zechariah, Do not confuse many towers for guarding against beset with reverses by forsaking God, this prophet with the post-exile prophet merauders. Exalted with such power and Discovering the plot against him, lie flees by tlie same name who authored tlie book prosperity, his name is understandably to lis great fortification at Lachisli on his of Zachariali, Their dates are far apart. spread abroad throughout his world. His southwestern border, but it does him no We have no details about the Zechariah of success is attributed to two sources: (1) good, for he is killed there and returned to Uzziah's day, %e strengthened himself exceedingly" (I1 Jerusalem for burial. Cliron, 26:8); and (2) "lie was QUESTIONS marvelously helped, till he was strong'' (v. QUESTIONS 1. Recite the 2 memory-facts for this event. 16). Will this success go to his head, or Comment on the dilferent motives for assassinations will he be able to handle it spiritually? 1. Recite the 2 memory-facts for this event. 2. in Israel and Judah. 2, How many years does Amaziah outlive his rival We shall see. 3. What Is Judah's new king's two names? Jehoash? 4. How long will he reign? 3. When do things begin going bad for Amaziah? How far along is Jeroboam II in his long forty-one QUESTIONS 4. Tell of his sad end. 5. year reign? 13. How does "Smith" account for this long period of 1 Recite the 4 memory-facts for this event 85, A Powerful King Takes over In poiitioal stability in both kingdoms? 2 What does the recovering of Elath mean to Judah? 7. What prophet strengthens Judah's new king? 3 Tell of his military set-up and record the South 4 Tell of his iivestocl( and agricultural pursuits 5 What two things account for his greatness? ASS IG NM ENTS 86, Uzzlah's Reign is Prosperous for Judah 87, Israel's Last Powerful King 1. Read II Chron. 26:1,3-5; II Kings 151-4. Dies 2, Study the event until you can tell it. ASSIGNMENTS 3. Memorize these facts about the event: ASSIGNMENTS a. In the midst: of Jeroboam 11's long 1. Read II Kings 14:22 and II Chron. 266 15. reign Uzziah comes to Jerusalem's 1. Read II Kings 14:28,29. 2. Study the event until you can tell it. throne at the young age of sixteen. 2. Study the event until you can tell it. 3. Memorize these facts about the went: b. He will reign for fifty-two years, 3. Memorize these facts about the event: a. He regains the seaport Elath on the c. Through a prophet Zechariah he seeks a. Jeroboam Ilk exploits are recorded In Red Sea. Jehovah and prospers. the chronicles of the kings of Israel. b. He subdues neighbor nations that fear b. His death terminates his long reign. COMMENTS him and pay tribute to him. c. He fortifies Jerusalem, d. He is rich in livestock and agriculture. COMMENTS emember that an assassination in Judali is different Erom an COMMENTS might wonder why Rsassination in Israel, In Israel it Inspiration has recorded so brings a new dynasty to the throne. Not .zziah's long reign and success are little about Jeroboam 11's long so in Judah. The assassinated king's son reign.w Because little of it is related to the results of his own doing and will succeed liim, So an assassination in God's blessing. Recovering Elatli spiritual life of Israel. And yet in our Judali is not motivated by some aspirant- U on the Red Sea, the port that dates back text's brief su~nmaryof his reign, mention to-the-throne but by people dissatisfied to Solomon's reign, gives Judah a is made of his military exploits. Though with the condition of things under tlie valuable connection with many parts of his reign is one of strength, Israel will existing ruler. So Amaziah's son Azariali the world. His victories over the begin its final decline after his death. (or Uzziah as he is better known) is Philistines and other neighbor nations are crowned the new king. In the North remiliscent of David's wars and victories. QUESTIONS Jeroboam I1 is in the twenty-seventh year Besides having a large myand able 1. Recite the 2 memory-facts for this event. of his forty-one reign. With Uzziah's long officers over it, he repairs Jerusalem's 70 DIVIDEDKINGDOM HISTORY

2. Why is so little recorded about Jeroboam 11's reign 89, Another Assassination within e. The priests banish the leprous king even though it was a long reign? from the temple. 3. What of Israel's political condition after his death? a Month Rocks Israel f. He is a leper until his death, living in 88, Time Runs out on the Jehu ASSIGNMENTS a separate house while his son Dynasty Jotharn reigns co-regent with him. 1. Read II Kings 1313-18. 2. Study the event until you can tell it. ASSIGNMENTS COMMENTS 3. Memorize these facts about the event: a. Zechariah's assassin (Shallum) gets to 1. Read II Kings 15:8-12. od has made Uzziah a very rule only one month before he is 2. Study the event until you can tell it. strong, prosperous ruler. But assassinated by Menahem. 3. Memorize these facts about the event: there is danger in strength and b. Menahem is a wicked, brutal ruler. G a. Zechariah succeeds his father prosperity (Deut. 8:7-14). It is sad that if Jeroboam 11. COMMENTS God blesses us too much, we are not able b. He is assassinated after ruling only to take it in stride and be thankful. So six months. hese are turbulent times for Israel with Uzziah: "When he was strong, his c. He is the last of the Jehu dynasty to heart was lifted up to his destruction," rule, fulfilling God's promise to Jehu. following the death of their powerful Jeroboam 11. Shallum reminding us of the proverb, "Pride goeth T before destruction, and an haughty spirit COMMENTS has assassinated Zechariah after the latter has reigned only six months, and now before a fall" (Prov. 16:18). Uzziah, ou will recall that God raised up Shallum is assassinated by Menahem though, is not the first to try to usurp the Jehu to wipe out Baal-worship in after Shallum has reigned only one priesthood. In the Korah, Dathan, and YIsrael and to wipe out the wicked month. There is no question but what Abiram insurrection against Moses and house of Ahab. For this God promised Shallum is reaping what he has sown. Aaron, there were two hundred and fifty that he and his offspring would occupy Things quiet down for a time as men who wanted to burn incense, and the throne of Israel for four more Menahem rules for the next ten years. when they died,fire came out from the generations (I1 Kings 10:30). The When the inhabitants of the Israelite city presence of the Lord and consumed them, following tabulation will show that God Tiphsah refuse to recognize his rule, at which time Moses was instructed to has kept His promise and that the Jehu Shallum smites it most violently as is have their censers beaten into a single dynasty rules Israel for many years: indicated by his ripping open its pregnant plate and fastened to the altar of incense Jehu - 28 years women and letting the fetuses fall out on as a warning against anyone not of the Jehoahaz - 17 years the ground. Through all this Uzziah priestly tribe attempting to burn incense Jehoash - 16 years continues his quiet reign in Judah. (Num. 16:36-40). Eccl. 4:13 speaks of an Jeroboam I1 - 41 years "Old and foolish king, who will no more be admonished", and King, Uzziah fits Zechariah - % year QUESTIONS The assassination of Zechariah will the description, for he disregards all the 1. Recite the 2 memory-facts for this event. words and warnings of the high priest and bring a new dynasty to power. The 2. What is an instance of Menahem's brutality? combined fact that he is the final the other eighty priests, using his kingly generation promised to Jehu and that he 90, Uzziah's Success Goes to His authority to do what he has determined to gets to reign only one-half year indicates Head do. To the day of his death several years God is ready to remove that family from later he will regret that he did not listen to power. But it has gotten to rule Israel for ASSIGNMENTS these warnings, for God immediately around one-half of Israel's entire history, smites him with leprosy-and he is from its beginning in 933 B.C. to its fall 1. Read II Chron. 26:16-21. finished! He hastens to get out of the 2. Study the event until you can tell it. in 721 B.C. temple, thoroughly humbled (reminiscent 3. Memorize these facts about the event: of what Nebuchadnezzar said in Dan. a. King Uuiah's heart is filled with pride, QUESTIONS 4:37). Having exalted himself, he is now and he goes into the temple to burn humbled of God, a divine principle older 1. Recite the 3 memory-facts for this event. incense. 2. What promise had God made to Zechariah's b. The high priest Zechariah and eighty than Jesus' teaching on it later in Luke ancestor Jehu? priests are unsuccessful in their 18:14;Matt. 23:12; Luke 14:ll.Andthe 3. Why had God made such a promise to Jehu? attempt to forbid the king's action. priests rise up and thrust him out. 4. How is Zechariah's reign terminated? 5. Approximately how much of Israel's history does the c. Uzziah is angry because of their Whatever satisfaction he has had in Jehu dynasty rule? rebuke. pushing past the objecting priests is d. While yet angry, God strikes Uzziah momentary--not so with the punishment with leprosy. DIVIDEDKINGDOM HISTORY 71 for it, He will remain a leper every put an end to the Nortlierii Kingdom, It rule, Since his son ratlier than an assassin moment of the rest of his tliirteeii years, would appear that Assyria under their follows lhto the throne, we conclude lie As lie idly sits hi his separate house while ruler Pu1 (also luiown as Tilgatli-pileser died a natural death. his soil Jotliam rules, lie can only regret 111) takes advantage of the political unrest what be has done and brought upon in Israel to come against Metiahem in 734 QUESTIONS himself Illat God chooses iiot to reverse, B,C,Menaliem's offer to pay Assyria a 1. Reoile the 2 memorpfacts for this svent. Here is an interesting sidelight from thousand talents averts Israel's 2. Why do we know so little about Menahem's rule? destruction and causes Assyria to confirm 3. Why do we conclude that Menahem died a natural Uzziali's time. Anios was a propbet in death? Uzziah's day, and tlie book oE Amos him as ruler in tlie North, This sizeable beghis "two years before the earthquake". sum is raised by Menahem's levying a 93, Pekahiah is Israel's New Ruler There was a great earthquake soinetiiiie special tax (fifty silver sliekels) of the during the reign of Uzziali, according to kingdom's wealthy inen, What was the ASSIGNMENTS Zecli. 14:5 ("Ye shall flee, like as ye fled force tliat caused Pul to accept the payoff from before the earthquake in the days of and spare Israel? I€ we can parallel this I. Read II Kings 15:23,24. Uzziah"). "Through the years tlie Jews invasion with Amos's fist vision in Amos 2, Study the event until you can tell it. have lield that this earthquake was sent 7:l-3 (and we can in view of Amos's 3. Memorize these facts about the event: because of God's wrath against Icing series of three visions in chapters 7 and 8 a. Pekahiah becomes king. Uzziali for entering the temple to burn predicting tlie three Assyrian invasions b. Uzziah (Azariah) is still king in Judah. c. Pekahiah continues calf-worship. incense" (from your author's work, that will spell doom to the Northern "Commentary Studies in 5 Minor Kingdom), then it is tlie prophet Amos's COMMENTS Prophets"), prayer, "0 Lord God, forgive, I beseech tliee: by whom shall Jacob arise? for he is he leprous Uzziah of Judali is in QUESTIONS small" (Amos 7:2).Result? The next the closing years of his life when verse says, "The LORD repented for this" 1 Recite the 6 memory-facts for this event Pelcahiah becomes lting in Israel, 2 Can most people be prosperous without becoming (changed the decree--D.G.H.): "it shall T He will have a short reign. He too will proud in some way? not be, saitli tlie Lord" (final destruction 3 Who earlier than Uzziah tried to burn incense when follow the calf-worship of all previous they were not priests? is temporarily called off--D.G.H.), Northern Kingdom rulers, Nothing 4 What is on the altar of incense to warn Uzziali not to attempt to offer incense? QUESTIONS significant happens in his brief reign as 6 How many priests try to keep the king from burning not one event is chronicled in the Sacred incense? 1. Recite the 2 memory-facts for this event. Record. 6 With what does God smite the king? 2. What Assyrian ruler comes against Israel? 7 For how long will he be thus afflicted? 3. What does Menahem do that delays the destruction of the Northern Kingdom? QUESTIONS 91. Assyrian Invasion Begins 4. Where does Menahem get the money? 5. What is Amos's connection with this Invasion? 1. Recite the 3 memory-facts for this even!. Israel's Downfall 2. What of significance happens during his reign? 9% Death Ends Menahem's Ten- ASSIGNMENTS Year Rule 94. Another Assassination in the North 1. Read II Kings 15:19,20. 2. Study the event until you can tell it. ASSIGNMENTS 3. Memorize these facts about the event: ASSIGNMENTS a. Assyria withdraws after being paid one 1. Read II Kings 15:21,22. thousand talents of silver. 2. Study the event until you can tell it. 1. Read II Kings 1525-28. b. Menahem collects the money from 3. Memorize these facts about the event: 2. Study the event until you can tell it. wealthy men in Israel. Like the reigns of the other kings of 3. Memorize these facts about the event: the North, the happenings of a. In the fiftieth year of Uzziah of Judah COMMENTS Menahem's reign are recorded In the Pekah kills Pekahiah and takes his secular chronicles of Israel. throne in Israel. Menahem's death appears to be of b. He is flanked by fifty men of Gilead od has borne long with the natural causes. In the take-over. .perpetual calf-worship Ginaugurated by tlie Northern COMMENTS COMMENTS Kingdom's fist king Jeroboam. Now that Menahem has assassinated Shalluiii and ince tlie only record of Menahem lie disobedient Northern Kingdom taken tlie throne, God will begin the we have is illis II Kings account, is not to know peace and quiet weakening process that will eventually Swe know nearly nothing about his Tvery long between assassinations 72 DIVIDEDKINGDOM HISTORY

and take-overs. Now after Pekahiah has 2. In what. year of Uzziah's life is Isaiah called to be Quest ions a prophet? reigned only two years, he is assassinated 3. How many years of Uzziah's reign were very in the tower of his Samaria palace by one eventful? 1. Recite the 2 memory-facts for this event. of his captains, Pekah, helped by a fifty- 4. Who compiles a record of Uzziah's reign? 2 When does Jotham actually begin functioning as 7. Tell of his burial. Judah's king? man band from Gilead. This latter fact is 3. How is the character of Jotham described? sometimes taken to suggest that Pekah is 4. What does he not do what his father had done? 96. The Godly Jotham Prospers in 5. Tell of his building operations. from that part of the kingdom east of the the South 6 Whom does he defeat in wan Jordan. Argob and Arieh, who are evidently killed along with the king, ASSIGNMENTS 97. Reverses In Jotham's Last might be royal guards of the king who Years were greatly outnumbered by Pekah's 1. Read II Kings 15:32-35; II Chron. 27:l-6. host. The many-year reign of Uzziah in 2. Study the event until you can tell it. ASSIGNMENTS the South is still going on. 3. Memorize these facts about the event: a. Though Jotham does what is right, I. Read II Kings 15:36-38. QUESTIONS there are still some vestiges of 2. Study the event until you can tell it. idolatry. 3. Memorize these facts about the event: 1. Recite the 2 memory-facts for this event. b. God's blessing enables him to build a. In Jotham's last days God sends 2. Where does the assassination take place? Syria against him. 3. Who could Argob and Arieh be? and fortify both in Jerusalem and in 4. Where may Pekah be from? the mountainous and forest regions of b. Jotham dies. Judah as well as subjugate Ammon. 95. Judah's Second Longest Reign COMMENTS Ends COMMENTS otham has been a good king, but ASSIGNMENTS ver since Jotham's father Uzziah shce it says God sends a coalition of became leprous, Jotham has been JSyria under Rezin and Israel under 1. Read II Chron. 26:22,23. the functioning monarch in the Pekah against him in his last days, 2. Study the event until you can tell it. E South. Now that Uzziah has died after Jotham has done something to displease 3. Memorize these facts about the event: thirteen long years of isolation, the Bible God, for God does not afflict any of His a. Uzziah's death concludes his fifty-two people without a just reason. However, years as king. account returns to tell us about Jotham b. Isaiah compiles a book on Uzziah's and his reign. It is said that he does what there is not the slightest hint in our text as life. is right in the eyes of the Lord as his to what evil Jotham has done. The war father had done before him, but it that begins in Jotham's day will escalate COMMENTS expressly mentions that he does not go into a greater war under his son Ahaz (see into the temple as his father had done. It later event). Thus, on a down-graph does he great prophet Isaiah is called to is folly indeed not to learn from the Jotham's life and reign come to an end, be a prophet this year that Uzziah obvious mistakes of others. Because he is Tdies (Isa 6: Iff). Though Uzziah's a good king, even though the people are QUESTIONS presumptuous act has removed him from still persisting in high-place worship, God 1. Recite the 2 memory-facts for this event. kingly activities, there was much that was helps prosper him in the things he builds. 2. Why do Syria and Israel come against Judah? great about the first thirty-eight years oE Whether in Jerusalem, where he builds 3. What has Jotham done to cause this? the high gate of the temple and on the his reign, and Isaiah writes a story of his 98. A Wicked King Takes over In wall south of the temple area (Ophel), or reign in recognition of Uzziah's greatness. Judah His death concludes the longest reign in in the mountains and forests of Judah, either kingdom up until now (fifty-two where he fortifies, wherever you look you ASSIGNMENTS Years), but there will be one yet longer in can see God is with Jotham. In war with the future (Manasseh's with fifty-five year the Ammonites east of the Jordan he is 1. Read II Kings 16:l-4; II Chron. 28:l-4. reign). It appears from the text that victorious so that for three successive 2. Study the event until you can tell it. though he is buried in the royal burial years they pay him tribute money. Again 3. Memorize these facts about the event: plot, he is not buried close to the others it is the case of a godly king who becomes a. Jotham's son succeeds him in the because of being a leper. mighty through the blessing of God, and seventeenth year of Pekah's reign in that because he himself chooses to be Israel. b. The new king Ahaz is wicked QUESTIONS godly. The same choice and blessings are still ours today. (idolatrous) like the kings of Israel 1. Recite the 2 memory-facts for this event. rather than godly like his ancestor David. DIVIDEDKINGDOM HISTORY 73

COMMENTS reign ("Pfei€€er" says in 733 B,C,, one i$ Ahaz is besieged by the Edomites and year a€ter tlie first invasion) that Assyria the Philistines. ekah, tlie king o€ Israel who again invades the North, and again under j, Though he sends money to Tiglath- troubled Judah in the final days of Tiglatli-pileser (lie was called by his pileser to come help him, he doesn't. PJotliam, is on tlie throne when personal name Pul in Uie earlier invasion). twenty-year-old Ahaz succeeds his In his first invasion he settled for a large COMMENTS deceased €ather, Ahaz was only thee paynient o€money, but this time he takes when Pekah became king in the North I€ away some oi Israel's territory--the he blending o€ tlie I1 Kings, I1 we would change tlie last letter of Aliaz's northern part comprising the cities Ijon, Cliron., and Isa. accounts into an name to "b", we would have the name oE Abel-Betl~naachah,Janoah, Kedesh, and Texact clronological sequence is "Ahab", atid tlie terrible idolatrous Hazor, plus Naplitali's allotnient, Galilee, not easy nor something about which your practices of Aliaz's reign make him more and tlie land o€ Gilead east of. tlie Jordan writer is absolutely cerlaiii and dogmatic. like Ahab and tlie other kings o€ the River, And just as the prophet Anios The "memory-€acts" listing above, at North than like his venerated ancestor envisioned tlie first invasion, so does his best, is a studious attempt to create a David, Reference to making his son pass second vision (the vision of fire, Amos probable order o€ events. With Assyria through the fire refers to his worship of 7:4) envision this invasion in which "a rising to such prominence, Israel and the Ammonites' fire-god Moloch, We part." is eaten up. In Amos's vision he Syria, who have off-and-on been involved note too his patronage of Baal, tlie prays for Israel (Amos 7:5), and God in hostilities against each other, now band idolatrous religion reminiscent o€ Ahab keeps Tiglatli-pileser f'roin totally together in an attempt to defend and Jezebel. destroying Israel at this time (Amos 75). themselves against any Assyrian attack. Because Ahaz evidently does not join QUESTIONS QUESTIONS them, probably fearing they will eventually lose to Assyria, the two kings 1 Reoite the 2 memory-facts for this event 1. Reolle the 2 memory-faots for this event. 2 Who Is reigning in the North when Ahaz begins in the 2. What Assvrian ruler invades Israel aoain? attack him but at first cannot overcome South? 3. What year is this? him. Giving up €or the time, Rezin of 3 How old IS Ahaz when he becomes king? 5,4, What damage does he do? Syria takes his amy down to Elatli, 4 Ahaz is aoluaily more like the kings of What keeps him from totally ending the Northern than like his anoestor Kingdom with this invasion? Judah's port on the Red Sea, and takes it, 5 Causing his son to pass through the fire in the Afterwards he and Pekali resume their worship of the Ammonite god 100, A Series of Military Struggles war with Ahaz, and this time they are 6. What other heathen deity Is mentioned as being Involving Judah successful, killing one hundred twenty worshiped by Ahaz? thousand in one day, including three men ASSIGNMENTS very close to the king of Judah. They also 99, Assyrla Again Invades Israel take inany captives. But God sends a 1I Read 11 Kings 16:5-18; 11 Chron. 285-21; to forbid the ~~fil~~~~Killgdom ASSIGNMENTS Isa. 7:i--8:8. to keep the captives it has taken, and 1. Read Il Kings 1'5:29. 2. Study the event until you can tell it. 2. Study the event until you can tell it, 3, Memorize these facts about the event: Israel restores them to Judali. Because 3. Memorize these facts about the event: a. pekah of and Rezin of Damascus has been victorious over a. Tiglath-pileser of Assyria takes several Damascus unsuccessfully besiege Judah, Ahaz foolishly begins to worship of Israel's northern cities. Ahaz at Jerusalem. its gods, hoping they will help him in the b. Some captives are taken to Assyria. b, After Rezin captures Elath, he and future as they have supposedly helped Pekah return and successfully defeat Damascus against him. In time Rezin and COMMENTS Ahaz. Pekah return to Jerusalem, this time to the C. Ahaz worships Damascus's gods. lion-cooperative Ahaz with a ruler of their s you inay recall, Assyria has d. Pekah and Rezin threaten Jerusalem own choosing (Tabael), probably to already invaded Israel in the again. assure Judah's joining them against e. Isaiah assures Ahaz that Jerusalem .reign o€ Menahein (I1 Kings Assyria. With their threatening to take A will soon be rid of both opposing 15:19,20). Bear in mind Assyria is tlie kings. away Ahaz, who though wicked is at least dominant power o€the time, and the only f. Ahaz hires Assyria to help him. the living representative o€ tlie line of reason it is not included in Daniel's listing g. Rezin has to withdraw from Jerusalem David on the throne, God wants to use the of' world-powers from his day to tlie when Assyria attacks Damascus occasion as an opportunity to show Ahaz setting up of the kingdom of God is that (Rezin is killed). He is the true God by sending the prophet Assyria flourished prior to Daniel's time. h. While Ahaz is at Damascus, he sees Isaiah to him, assuring Ahaz God will It is sometime during Peltah's twenty-year an altar that becomes the model for soon rid his land o€ both his oppressors. one he has built at Jerusalem. 74 DIVIDEDKINGDOM HISTORY

When Ahaz refuses God's offer of a sign, a. Hoshea assassinates Pekah and takes ASSIGNMENTS God says He will give the house of David over in the North. (not Ahaz) a sign that David's line will b. He is evil but not as bad as the 1. Read II Kings 173. always be in power. Jeremiah made the kings before him. 2. Study the event until you can tell it same promise: "Thus saith the Lord; 3. Memorize these facts about the event: David shall never want a man to sit upon COMMENTS a. Shalmaneser of Assyria invades Israel. b. Hoshea pays tribute to him. the throne of the house of Israel" (Jer. 33:17). When Jesus, the "son of David", od has seen that Rezin is slain, COMMENTS was born of a virgin (see Matt. 1: 18-23), and now Pekah gets what's the sign came to pass, and we can be Gcoming to him. Hoshea kills him assured of Christ's continued rule (Luke and rules in his place. Though he is said srael has been Paying tribute to the to be evil but not as evil as the kings Assyrian Tiglath-Pileser. Now that he 1:3 1-33). Ahaz, though, has his own before him, the ten-tribe kingdom of the Iis dead, Hoshea tests the soverei€Pw program for the deliverance of Jerusalem; No& will come to end nine years Of Tiglath-pileser's Successor hiring Tiglath-pileser of Assyria to come an later. Shalmaneser. Thus Shalmaneser comes against his opponents. Tiglath-pileser and against Israel and again forces it into a Ahaz's going to Damascus to meet him is QUESTIONS tributary position to the power of Assyria. in conformity with the Assyrian ruler's 1 Recite the 2 memory-facts for this event practice of having his vassals come to QUESTIONS him and personally bow down in 2 How long will Hoshea reign? recognition of his authority over them, 1 Recite the 2 memory-facts for this event 2 Who succeeds Tiglaih-pileser as ruler of Assyria? While in Damascus Ahaz sees an altar 109, Hezekiah Becomes King in Judah 3 What causes him to come against Israel? that greatly appeals to him, and he has 4 What is the result of his corning? one like it made for Jerusalem. God has ASSIGNMENTS kept the line of David on the throne of 104, Revival under Judah's New King Jerusalem even though He is not pleased 1. Read II Kings 16:19,20; 18:1,2; I1 Chron. with Ahaz's doings. He, therefore, brings 28:26--29:1. ASSIGNMENTS the Edomites from the south and the 2. Study the event until you can tell it. 3. Memorize these facts about the event: Philistines from the southwest against 1. Read II Kings 18:l-6; II Chron. 29:l-36. a. Ahaz dies, but they do not bury him him, and Ahaz again turns to Tiglath- 2. Study the event until you can tell it. in the sepulchres of the kings. pileser for help. Tiglath-pileser comes all 3. Memorize these facts about the event: b. Ahaz's twenty-five-year-old son right, but instead of helping Ahaz, he a. Hezekiah reverses the policies of his Hezekiah begins his twenty-nine- father, immediately proceeding to further distresses him, only adding to his year reign. military woes. purify the temple of all idolatry and to restore the temple services. COMMENTS QUESTIONS b. One of the items of idolatry he destroys is the brazen serpent Moses 1. Recite the 10 memory-facts for this event. en a king of Judah's reign was made in the wilderness because they 2. Is it easy or difficult to harmonize the several accounts at this time into a dogmatic marked by severe military are worshiping it. chronological sequence? reverses, it was customary not 3. Why are Israel and Syria probably allied together at w to honor him with the normal burial of its COMMENTS this time when they have usually been antagonistic to each other? kings. Because of the political weakness 4. What is the probable reason for their attacking Ahaz the kingdom has suffered under Ahaz, he ike father, like son?'' Not always-- at this time? 5. What are Rezin and Pekah planning to do if they is not entombed among the kings of surely not in Ahaz and Hezekiah's defeat Jerusalem? Judah. As is customary in Judah, a son of Lcase. Ahaz was wholly idolatrous; 6. What will be the fulfillment of the virgin-birth prophecy a deceased monarch succeeds him on the his son Hezekiah is just the opposite (a of Isa. 7:14? throne--this time Hezekiah. Jehovah-worshiper). He departs from the ways of his father (idolatry) not because 101. The North's Last King Takes QUESTIONS Over he is a rebel but because he is wise. He 1. Recite the 2 memory-facts for this event. s ai d ,I' 0 ur fathers have ASSIGNMENTS 2. Tell of the burial of Ahaz. trespassed...Wherefore the wrath of the Lord was upon Judah and Jerusalem, and 1. Read II Kings 1530; 17:1,2. 103, Hoshea Pays Tribute to he delivered them to trouble". Possibly 2. Study the event uhtil you can tell it. Assyria the low esteem held for his father in 3. Memorize these facts about the event: Judah's not burying him among the kings DIVIDED KINGDOM HISTORY 75 bas helped Hezekiah in his thinking, that their fathers have lived in happy are the people of the North who From Ilie very outset of his reign (tlie first disobedience that has been bringing God's have for so long been deprived of this month of his first year) be begins his wrath down upon them, and he sees some privilege and the people of the South who much needed reforms, We are surprised hope of God's mercy for them yet if they have received them and observed this to hear again of tlie brazen serpent of will again become obedient to Jehovah (v, seven-day €east together that they stay on Moses' day (Nun, 21:8) some eight 6-9) The "posts" who are sent out are for another seven days, It is the greatest hundred years ago, Now because the messengers (our words "postman" and Passover since the days of King Solomon, people are worshiping it, Hezeltiah has it "post office" are related to tlieir word for following his death tlie kingdom was broken in pieces also, Since Ahaz's "post"), Hezekiah sets a good example in divided, administration discontinued temple not only wantiiig to be right himself but service (I1 Clron, 28:21), King Hezekiah in wanting to help others be right also, QUESTiONS restores tlie priests to their temple roles, You will notice that this Passover is to 1. Reoite the 3 memow-facts for this event. After die temple and its vessels are be in the second month of the year instead 2. What is the gist of the message Hezekiah sends to those in the Northern Kingdom? cleansed, the king and his rulers come up of the usual first month. Purifying the 3. Do his messengers let the mislreatment by some stop to the temple to see that tlie temple temple in the first month of the year (I1 them from fulfilling their mission? sacrifices and music are restored and to Chron. 29:17,18) was such a big work 4. Why is this Passover being observed In the second month of the year instead of the first? rejoice, Some today actually blame David that it left no time for the priests 5. Why does Hezekiah pray a special prayer for those for the introduction of instrumental music themselves to become suitably purified to 01 the North who take part in the into the temple, but I1 Chron, 29:25 says hold it at the usual time. Hezekiah Passover? 6. What indicates the extreme joy of those observing he and his seer Gad and the prophet remembers the provision God made in this Passover? Nathan introduced it at the commandment Num. 9: 10,ll whereby tlie Passover can 7. What factor makes this the greatest Passover of the Lord, be observed in the second month instead observance since Solomon was king? of the first; thus, they plan it for the 106, QUESTiONS Further Revival under second month. Hezekiah 1. Recite the 2 memory-facts for this event. His messengers are variously treated as 2. Why does Hezekiah depart from the idoialrous ways they go through the tribes of the North. ASSIGNMENTS of his father? Can't you hear some of he Northerners 3. About how many years has the brazen serpent been around? ridicule the invitation? But that doesn't 1. Read II Chron. 31:i-21. 4. Was the introduction of instrumental music into the make the messengers wrong and the 2. Study the event until you can tell it. temple service 01 human or divine origin? ridiculers right any more than mocking 3. Memorize these facts about the event: today makes the mockers right and a, The reaction against idolatry that has 105, the Great Passover under believers wrong (see I1 Pet. 3:3,4). The been in Jerusalem is now extended Hezekiah faithful messengers continue their throughout the Southern Kingdom and mission, and they are rewarded by those Into the Northern. ASSIGNMENTS b. Hezekiah organizes the priests and who accept the invitation. Why are only Levites and appoints his own burnt 1. Read II Chron. 3O:i-27. five tribes mentioned as attending? offerings. 2. Study the event until you can tell it. "Barnes" explains: "Two (Reuben and c. He reinstates God's system for the 3. Memorize these facts about the event: Gad) are in captivity. One (Dan) was support of the priests and Levites. a. Hezekiah sends messengers throughout absorbed into Judah. Simeon and Israel inviting them to come to the Naptliali, which alone remained seem to COMMENTS Passover. have been more than ordinarily idolatrous b, While some in Israel ridicule the (11 Clron. 34:6)." ere is another entire chapter messengers, others come to the feast. So strongly does Hezelciah feel about c. It is the greatest Passover since the devoted to Icing Hezekiah. Some having those of the Noah take part in this days of King Solomon. Hkings did so little to take note of Passover that lie invites them even though that only a few verses were devoted to COMMENTS they will not have time to purify them whereas several chapters are themselves ahead of time. In consequence devoted to the worthy reign of Judah's ezekiali does what Jeroboam I he prays about their case: "The good Lord present Icing. feared Rehoboam would do: get pardon every one that preparetli his heart As the prolonged Passover comes to Hthe people of the Noah to attend to seek God, the Lord God of his fathers, an end the rejuvenated worshipers go the feasts at Jerusalem (see I Icings though he be not cleansed according to €orUi from Jerusalem to destroy idolatrous 12:26-28).Hezekiah not only wants them the purification of the sanctuary." "And places throughout the Southern Kingdoin to attend the Passover, but he recognizes the Lord hearkened to Hezeltiah." So and also in the Northern Kingdom. "Then 76 DIVIDEDKINGDOM HISTORY all the children of Israel returned, every he good reign of Hezekiah shows not His will that the newly formed man to his possession, into their own that good leadership can arise kingdom be worshipers of Dan and cities." Twhen situations are very bad. In Bethel's golden calves and of various David divided the tribe of Levi into its fact, most of history's great leaders have other forms of idolatry from time to time. three sections: Gershon, Kohath, and come on the scene when it was very dark. But God has borne with nineteen different Merari. He fwher broke down the Man is not always faithful to God who is kings (from Jeroboam to Hoshea) over a priestly work into sections (see I Chron. good to him, but God never fails to be two hundred and twelve year period (from 23 and 24). These were known as faithful to anyone who is good to 933 B.C. to 721 B.C.), but He will bear "courses". John the Baptist's father was a Him-thus, "The Lord was with him; and with Israel no more. Amos's third vision priest. As a part of the ''course'' of he prospered whithersoever he went (Amos 7:7-9) has God setting a Abijah, it was his "loti' to burn incense forth.I' plumbline in the midst of Israel, and (Luke 1:5,9). Hezekiah reinstates this Hezekiah's father Ahaz was tributary Israel (like a wall about ready to topple) system of service for the priests and to Assyria. As it is now so evident that is beyond repair. God says, "I will not Levites. God is prospering Hezekiah, he refuses to again pass by them any more," meaning He is going to call on the people to continue paying this tribute money. This His mercy has run out. And so when King bring of their substance for the temple bold act is based on his great trust in his Hoshea thinks he can get sufficient help and those serving in it, so he sets a good God Jehovah. It is possible that he does from Egypt to throw off the tribute-yoke example by setting aside his portion also. so when the new Assyrian king of Assyria, God uses Shalmaneser and the The people seeing their king so generous, Shalmaneser becomes ruler. God also Assyrians to come against the Northern they do likewise, and it is a surprising enables Hezekiah to smite the Kingdom in its final days. For three years abundance that they bring. When the king neighboring Philistines decisively. Judah the Assyrians surround the capital sees the heaps of things brought, he can truly has a great king in Hezekiah. Samaria, awaiting its ultimate collapse hardly believe it either. As a result he when all food supplies within the city are arranges for proper storage of these items QUESTIONS depleted. There is a division of thought in designated temple chambers and 1 Recite the 2 memory-facts for this event whether Shalmaneser died before the fall appoints officers to be in charge. 2 How does Hezekiah's case encourage courageous of the North or whether right after. Some The chapter closes with a beautiful leadership in times that are dark? say he died before so that the actual fall 3 When did Judah begin paying tribute to Assyria? report of Hezekiah's good work. In some 4 When does Hezekiah probably rebel against Assyria? came under his successor Sargon. Most of ways he reminds your writer of the good the verses setting forth this event are work that will be undertaken and done by 108, The Northern Kingdom 1s explanations why God has brought this Nehemiah some years later. Toppled by Assyria destruction to Israel. In harmony with the Assyrian policy, the ruler deports the QUESTIONS ASSIGNMENTS citizenry out of the land so there is no

1 Recite the 3 memory-facts for this event possibility of a rebuilding and a later 1. Read II Kings 17:3-23; II Kings 18:9-12. 2 Why is so much information recorded about uprising on the part of the conquered. The Hezekiah's reign? 2. Study the event until you can tell it. captives are taken to the land of the 3 How generous are the people in their giving? 3. Memorize these facts about the event: 4 What arrangements does Hezekiah make for taking a. Hoshea who earlier submitted to Medes (several hundred miles to the north care of their offerings? Assyria's tribute demands now rebels and east of Palestine). Mark 721 B.C.as and calls on Egypt for help. the date for the fall of the Northern 107, God Blesses Hezeklah and b. Assyria takes Samaria and Israel after Kingdom. Judah a three-year siege. There is a false theory known as the c. With its deporting of the Israelites the British-Israel or Anglo-Israel theory that ASSIGNMENTS Northern Kingdom falls. has the British people the lineal offspring of the deported tribes. We commonly 1. Read II Kings 18:7,8. refer to them as the "ten lost tribes of 2. Study the event until you can tell it. COMMENTS 3. Memorize these facts about the event: Israel'' because they are. They were a. Hezekiah is able to rebel against deported as captives, sold as slaves into paying tribute to Assyria. everal Bible verses speak of the different nations, and as individuals they b. He also is victorious over Philistia. "forbearance" and the were absorbed into the nations to which S"longsuffering" of God--like Rom. they were sold. Besides, the prophet COMMENTS 3:25; Rom. 2:4; I1 Pet. 3:9; I Pet. 3:20. Amos two different times said the While it was God's will that ten tribes be Northern Kingdom people were going to broken off from Solomon's family, it was fall and would never rise again: "The DIVIDEDKINGDOM HiSTORY 77

virgin oE Israel is fallen; she shall no IIO, The Conglomerate Religion because of tlie degenerate religious more rise" (Amos 5 $2); "They shall €all, of the New Nation conditions lie has grown up in and and iiever rise up again" (Amos 8:14) operated in bdore Israel's €all? He ASSIGNMENTS succeeds at least in giving them the QUESTIONS writings o€ Moses (Genesis through 1, Read II Kings 17:25-41, Deuteronomy), €or the Samaritans to this 1. Reoite the 9 memory-facts for this event 2, Study the event until you can tell It. 2 Through hcw many kings and over how many years day have those writings (altered here and has God borne with the Northern Kingdom and 3. Memorize these facts about the event: its idolatry? a. Since this new people do not worship there to fit their own set-up), But they do 3. in what year does the Northern Kingdom fall? Jehovah, He sends lions among them not take seriously tlie commandment that 4. What prophet prophesied that it would never rise that slew some of them. says, "Thou shalt have no other gods again? 6, To what land are the oaptives hken? b. They appeal to the king of Assyria to be€ore me ('in my presence'--D,G,H.)", send an israeiite priest who can teach for each nation contiilues with the 109, A New Nation Replacer them what the "God of the land" worship oE its omi native god. We are Israel In Its Land would have them know, surprised to read, "They feared Jehovah c. A priest is sent back to teach them, and their gods,^^ until we stop d. The result is adding some aspects of ASSIGNMENTS to reflect that much the same can be said Jehovah-worship whlie each national our group maintains its own previous god. about own American nation &at 1, Read II Kings 17:24. a€fiis€aith in God while serving its own 2, Study the event until you can tell it, COMMENTS gods o€mammon and pleasure, 3, Memorize these facts about the event: Having the writings of Moses we can a. The Assyrian king brings captives of see why the Samaritan woman said to his from other nations to repopulate at will God do He has the area vacated by captive Israel. had Israel deported €rom the Jesus, "We know that Messias cometli" b. This is the beginning of the Samaritan land that has been sacred (John 4:25) and why He appreciated the people. w because o€ God's promise to Abraham response given Him by her and her and His giving it to Abraham's seed after townspeople enough to spend a couple COMMENTS him, Naturally this heterogeneous group days with them (John 4:39-43). Later is not God's people and does not know Philip (Acts 85) and Peter and John his is the other half of the nor obey God's laws. God wishes to go 011 (Acts 8:25) preached in various places in Assyrian victory policy-not only record at the very beginning of their Samaria, and Acts 8:12 and Acts 15:3 Tto take tlie defeated out oi their occupation of the land that things are not show that there came to be churches native land to some other land but to right, He sends hungry lions into the among the Samaritans. bring in captives from other campaigns various cities. Various Old Testament Being mongrel by blood and apostate and settle thein in the land just conquered passages indicate that lions are native to in religion we can see why Zerubabbel and vacated. We coimnonly hear that the Palestilie (Samson killed one fliat roared the retunlillg Jews will refuse to let Samaritans were a hal€-breed nation against him, David killed a lion in caring them have a part in rebuilding the teinple composed of the ofispring of these for his father's sheep, etc,). They were after the Captivity (Ezra 4:2,3), and the €oreigiers as they intermarried with the evidently no real problem while Israel trouble between the two peoples will set Israelites who remained in the land, The was in tlie land, but now that God has a in (Ezra 4:4) that will persist even to Biblical evidence that there were any mission €or the lions, He causes them to Jesus' day (John 4:9 and Luke 9:5 1-53). amount of Israelites le€t in the land by the invade Samaritan towns so suddenly that QUESTiONS Assyrians is slight, malting the in their suuerstitious belief in local or Samaritans basically a mongrel people provincial gods, they collclude *at the 1. Reoite the 4 memory-facts for this event. 2. What evidence do we have that there were llons in resulting from the intermarriage oi the God Of their area is hi&hlY displeased the land before we read of them here? various peoples Assyria brings in. wit11 tllein, It is 011 this Gckgro&j they 3 HOWmuch of the Old Testament do the Samaritans have? request Israelite priest to be back 4 How does this faol show up in the Samaritan QUESTIONS to teach them about the "God of the woman at the well? la1#, olle pies@is selected alld 5 When does the hoslilily between the Samaritans and 1. Reoite the 2 memory-facts for this event. so ofule Jews begin? 2. How Is the vacant land of israel repopulated? sent back to teach them the law of God. Can he be one hundred per cent correct PART FOUR Judah's History after Israel's Fall

This period, highlighted by the reigns of two godly kings (Hezekiah and Josiah), will be otherwise plagued by wicked and weak kings, resulting in Judah's "BabylonianCaptivity". DIVIDEDKINGDOM HISTORY 79

Ill,Semacherib Attacks 3. Memorize these facts about the event: Eitlier way will be adequate, but Hezekiah Judah'r Fortified Cities a, Hezekiah is told to prepare to die. considers it an even greater sign i€ the b. God regards his tears and prayers and shadow reverses itself With God no work promises to to ASSIGNMENTS add fifteen years his of power is impossible (Luke 1:37), for life. He can do more than we ask or think c. God also promises to deliver 1. Study II Kings 18:13; II Chron. 32:l; Isa. (Epli, 3:20), He grants Hezekiah's Jerusalem out of the hand of so 36:1, Sennacherib, request, 2. Study the event until you can tell it. d. Hezekiah asks for and receives a The thoughts about all this wliicb 3. Memorize these facts about the event: special sign. Hezekiah puts in writing (Isa. 38:9-20) a. Sennacherib is the powerful king of forni a precious piece of literature, Study Assyria. b. He comes against Hezekiah's fortified COMMENTS it carefully, cities (and will ultimately take them), t is arbitrary on tlie student's part just QUESTIONS COMMENTS when lie thinks Hezekiah's sickness 1. Recite the 4 memory-facts for this event takes place. Both I1 Kings and Isa, 2. How do we know Hezekiah's sickness takes plaoe I during Sennacherib's invasion of Judah'? ecause tlie prophet Isaiah is devote several chapters to Seiuiacherib's 9. What do we know aboul the purpose of the king's personally connected with this case before giving attention to the king's sickness? stretch of history in the reign of severe sicluiess. In telling of it both 4. How old Is Hezekiah at this time? B 6. What is his response to the message that he will Hezekiah, we not only have the I1 Kings accounts merely says, "In those days was die from this sickness? and I1 Chron. coverages but also an Isa. Hezeltiah sick unto death," leaving us to 6. What good news now comes to Hezekiah? decide just at what point of time during 7. By what means does he gel well? coverage. a. What other people in the Bible asked for signs? It is now the fourteenth year of Seiuiacherib's invasion it lakes place. (I1 Q, What sign does God give the king to assure him Ilezekiah. He is nearly midway though Kings 3 8 :6 does confirm the fact that it that he will get well? his twenty-nine-year reign. It was in his occurs during the Seimacherib ordeal.) sixth year that Sainaria fell to the Neither of the accounts affords us any 113, Hezekiah Receives Viskors Assyrians (I1 Kings 18:10). According to information about the purpose of the from Babylon archaeology it was Sargon I1 who brought king's sickness. If it is not purposeful on ASSIGNMENTS the final destruction to the Northern God's part, them it is a natural sickness Kingdom. Sennacherib, who is now ruling such as can occur to any of us at any time. 1. Study II Kings 20:12-19; Isa. 39:i-8. in Assyria, is Sargon 11's son, A visit to At thirty-nine Hezeltiah is not 2. Study the event until you can tell it. the Ancient Assyria display in the British reconciled to the thought of dying, God 3. Memorize these facts about the event: Musewn in London will convince who answers prayer (Matt. 7:7), and a. The king of Babylon sends anybody that Sennacherib was indeed one especially earnest prayer (Jas. 5:16), is congratulations on Hezekiah's of Assyria's powerful kings. In coming touched with Hezekiah's tears and recovery. against Judah he hopes to do to the petition and through His prophet Isaiah b. Hezekiah shows them his possessions Soutliern Kingdom what his father did to sends word that He will add fifteen years of treasure and armor. the Northern. Before attacking tlie capital to liis life. His will not be a niiraculous c. Isaiah foretells that all these treasures will one day be carried to Babylon. (Jerusalem) he atlaclts Hezeltiah's defense healing (instantaneous) but providential such as God grants us (in a matter of days cities (Lacliish, Libnah, and others). COMMENTS and by the use of means--a fig poultice). QUESTIONS This account demonstrates that God is ear in mind that Babylon lias not not against medical means but actually 1. Recite the 2 memory-faots for this event. come into its great power and 2. How long has it been since the Northern Kingdom uses them to bring about man's cure-- won't for nearly a hundred years. fell to Assyria? something to be thankful for, B 3. Who is the present Assyrian king? , It, too, lias to fear tlie present might of In that day of open communication 4. What cities is he attacking? Assyria. It is thought that the purpose of with God through prophets it was not the Babylonian embassage coming to 112, Herekieh Becomes Deathly unconinion for one to ask for a sign Hezekiah is probably more political than 111 (recall Moses, Gideon, Zacharias, Mary, personal endeament-that from this may and otliers--Exo.4:1-9; Judg. 6:36-40; come an alliance with Judah that will be ASSiGNMENTS Luke 1:18; 1:34) such as Hezeltiah does. to both nations' mutual benefit in God's sign will be that the shadow on resisting the aggression of Nineveh. If so, 1. Study II Kings 2O:l-11; Isa, 38:l-22. King Ahaz's sun dial will either go Hezekiali's showing them liis possessions 2. Study the event until you can tell it. forward or retuni backward ten degrees. 80 DIVIDEDKINGDOM HISTORY and military equipment is to show them c. He increases their military supplies. ASSIGNMENTS what he has to contribute to their alliance. d. He assures his captains that God will But God has never been pleased with His be with them against Assyria. 1. Study II Kings 18:14-16. kings depending on alliances rather than 2. Study the event until you can tell it. on Him, so He sends Isaiah to administer COMMENTS 3. Memorize these facts about the event: a rebuke and to tell Hezekiah that a. Fearful of Sennacherib, Hezekiah asks t is but natural that Hezekiah and what it will take for peace. everything he has shown the men from b. Sennacherib demands three hundred Babylon will someday be carried off to Jerusalem do all they can to prepare for the coming invasion by talents of silver and thirty talents of Babylon. "Smith" wisely notes, "Here for I gold. the &st time, it would seem, Babylon and Sennacherib. It is a fearful time as the c. Hezekiah pays by giving him all the not Assyria was identified as the true and invader attacks the outlying fortified silver in the temple and palace and ultimate enemy of Judah. It would be cities first, Jerusalem knowing this to be by removing the gold from the doors Babylon which would bring to fulfillment in preparation for his attacking it, and pillars of the temple that he had all the predictions of the prophets since Jerusalem's principal water supply is the previously put there. the days of Moses concerning the great Gihon Spring just outside its east deportation of the people of God and the wall in the Kidron Valley. They decide to COMMENTS destruction of the holy city." Hezekiah dig a tunnel from the spring through the humbly accepts the rebuke and verdict. It ridge that parallels the east wall of the hronological arrangements may seem to us selfish of him to say, "Is city, diverting the water through the new concerning this period of it not good, if peace and truth be in my tunnel into the Pool of Siloam in the CHezekiah's reign are arbitrary and days?" yet there could be some of this in valley west of the ridge. This will put the not at all easy nor certain. Hezekiah's all of us as we acknowledge troubles that city's water inside the city's wall rather showing all his treasures to the will probably overtake our nation than leaving it outside. Archaeologists Babylonians has to precede this event sometime after we are dead and gone. have reopened this tunnel by removing when he uses them to pay off From I1 Chron. 32:3 1 we see that God is the silt that had nearly filled it through the Sennacherib. (Of course, he will soon get watching Hezekiah's behavior during this centuries, making it possible for one to them back at the defeat of Sennacherib so visit and vs. 25,26 indicate that Hezekiah carry a light and wade from the spring to that ultimately they can be carried to is not really as grateful for his healing nor the pool, a distance of a third of a mile. Babylon.) The visitors from Babylon do as humble before God afterwards as he The two times your writer has done this, not come until Hezekiah's recovery from should be. Therefore, He allows the depth of the water was different each his sickness. So we have the sickness, Sennacherib to continue his conquest in time. From a study of the pick-marks on then the recovery, then the visitors, and Judah and his threat to Jerusalem. the tunnel's walls it can be seen that sometime later this event. Hezekiah's men started at both ends and Though Hezekiah is regarded as one QUESTIONS tunneled toward each other. At the of Judah's best kings, he still has some completion of the job they chiseled faults: his response to his recovery was 1. Recite the 3 memory-facts for this event. 2. What is the stated purpose of the Babylonians' information about the tunnel's digging on not altogether pleasing to God; God did visit? the tunnel's wall near the Siloam end. The not like his pride over his treasures; and 3. What might have been another purpose of their inscription has been removed and is in the now his fear of Sennacherib is more coming? 4. What does Hezekiah show them? museum at Istanbul. In addition to the manifest than his complete trust in God. 5. Does God like this? water supply, Hezekiah makes other Even before Sennacherib attacked his 6. What prediction does Isaiah make? 7. What is Hezekiah's reaction to the prediction? preparations: walls, equipment, and fortified cities, he defeated Tyre, appointing captains. Ashkelon, and Ekron, and now he is in 114* Jerusalem Prepares to Hezekiah's domain. Hezekiah's, "I have Withstand Assyria QUESTIONS offended," may refer to some tribute he 1 Recite the 4 memory-facts for this event has failed to pay or to entering into an ASSIGNMENTS 2 The water of what spring does Hezekiah bring alliance against him. Has Hezekiah inside the city wall? forgotten God's power to give victory to 3 The tunnel ends at the Pool of 1. Study II Chron. 32:2-8. 4 How long is the water tunnel? His people over their powerful enemies in 2. Study the event until you can tell it. 5 What other war preparations does Hezekiah make the past? Is God weak today who was 3. Memorize these facts about the event: at Jerusalem? strong back there? Or is Hezekiah like a. He brings the city's water supply Peter who started out well by walking on inside its walls. 115* Hezeklah Offers Assyria a the water by faith but whose faith failed b. He repairs the city wall and builds an Pay-Off additional wall. in the face of a grave circumstance? Luke DIVIDEDKINGDOM HISTORY 81

18: 1 says we should pray and not faint. regiment loudly call to Hezekiah from the all opposition in hiis way, Judah's outlying This is what Hezekiah should be doing, valley floor outside Jerusalem's wall, defense cities are €'ailing to him, and trusting God to take care of thein instead Hezekiah sends three of his own officials Jerusalem is next on his list. Hezeltiah of capitulating to the wicked enemy, With to see what they are saying, Their has been a good king but should have such divine help available he should not message to Hezekiah is three-€old: (1) trusted in God instead of sending faint even in this day of adversity (see don't trust in your own military strength; Sennacherib the temple and palace Prov, 24: 10). Do you think God approves (2) don't trust in any help from weak treasures. But now that the pay-o€f is not Hezkiah's taking money from the temple Egypt; and (3) don't trust in God to working, what can he do but cast hiinsel€ treasury and the gold from tlie temple's deliver you out of my hand, They are on the mercies o€ God even as he did doors and pillars as well as his own correct in the first two-Hezekiah is not when he was deathly sick? The one hope treasure with which God has blessed him, militarily strong enough to resist the great on which he stands is that Seimacherib and giving them to this foreign monarch? power ofAssyria, and Egypt is not strong has blasphemed God. Notice tlie four Of course, He doesn't. And will enough either, But they are wrong in things in Hezekiah's message to Isaiah: Sennacherib be satisfied with this bringing Hezekiah's God into the matter, (1) it is a day of "trouble"-tliat is payment? We shall see, especially in comparing Him with the apparent; (2) a day of "rebuke"-in their pagan gods of other cities conquered by trouble he adtllits God is displeased with QUESTIONS Sennacherib. When Hezekiah's officials them; (3) "it is a day of

1. Recite the 3 memory-facts for this event. try to get Rabshakeh to speak in Syrian blasphemy"-Sennacherib's statements; 2. What clies has Sennacherib subdued before coming instead of Jewish so the people cannot and (4) "the children are come to the against Judah? understand their conversation,he refuses, birth, and there is not strength to bring 3. Really Hezekiah should be trusting rather than fearing saying he wants them to hear what he is forth"-likely a proverb expressing saying-so they will fear and be more human helplessness in a life-and-death 116, Sennaeherlb Wants a Full willing to surrender than fight. So he situation, The king not only goes to the Surrender continues his tirade, and the people do not temple but calls on God's great prophet to say a word back to him, for Hezekiah has pray who had earlier brought him a ASSIGNMENTS ordered them not to. merciful message during his sickness- prayer. Immediately his messengers are 1, Study II Kings 18:17-27; II Chron. 32:9- QUESTIONS sent back from Isaiah with the assurance 16,26; Isa. 36:2-22. God is going to take care of the 2, Study the event until you can tell it. 1 Recite the 4 memory-facts for this event 2 Does Sennacherib settle for Hezekiah's payoff? 3. Memorize these facts about the event: blaspheming Sennacherib. What a 3 Whom does Sennacherib dispatch to Jerusalem? comforting message to receive €rom God a. Sennacherib dispatches three military 4 What three-fold message does he send to leaders and soldiers to intimidate Hezekiah? in such a dark hour! Hezekiah and Jerusalem, 5 Why Qes he not respect the request not to speak in tlie Jewish language? QUESTiONS b. From the valley floor they speak of 6 What do the people answer him? the futility of thinking Jerusalem can 1. Recite the 2 memory-facts lor this event. resist Sennacherib, of trusting in 117+The Prophut's Comforting 2. Where does Hezekiah himseil go at this time? Egyptian help, or of trusting in their 3. How does he describe the gravity of their situation Message to Isaiah? God, 4. What urgent request does he make to Isaiah? c. When Hezekiah's officers ask them 6. What message does God send to Hezekiah? ASSIGNMENTS not to speak in the language of the Jews, they deliberately speak so the 1. Study II Kings 19:l-7; Isa. 37:1-7. ll&Another Threatening common people can hear them and 2. Study the event until you can tell it. Message to Jerusalem be fearful. 3. Memorize these facts about the event: d. The people remain quiet, obeying a, Hezekiah goes into the temple and ASSIGNMENTS Hezekiah's orders. sends messengers to the prophet Isaiah, asking him to pray about their 1. Study II Kings 19:8-37; II Chron. 32:17- COMMENTS grave situation. 22; Isa. 37:8-38. b. Through Isaiah God assures Hezekiah 2. Study the event until you can tell it. ennacherib is not content with the of the destruction of Sennacherib. 3. Memorize these facts about the event: payoff sent him by Hezekiah but a. Sennacherib is now warring against sends a preliminary €orce to COMMENTS Libnah in Judah. S b. When Rabshakeh hears that the king Jerusalem, hopefully to affect its of Ethiopia is coming against them, surrender without a battle. To accomplish t is a fearful time for Hezekiah and he sends a quick letter to Hezekiah, this the three leaders of the military IJudah. Sennacherib has been crushing hoping for his surrender. 82 DIVIDEDKINGDOM HISTORY

c. Hezekiah spreads the letter out before Nineveh," it means he discontinued his were before him." While Josiah, the Lord in the temple and prays a aggressiveness, and ultimately gets slain according to I1 Kings 23:25, excelled all great prayer. by two of his own sons. So the second other kings before and after him in other d. Isaiah again sends word to the king time in Hezekiah's reign God has ways, Hezekiah excelled them all in his of the coming destruction of Sennach- providentially rescued him, first from prayerful trust in God. And those whom erib, of Jerusalem's deliverance, and death and now from the invader. God greatly blesses, and He does of Judah's prospective future. e. Sennacherib's mighty army is smitten Hezekiah, will likewise be honored by his QUESTIONS with death during the night, and he fellowmen, so at his death after fifteen returns to his land where he is later 1. Recite the 5 memory-facts for this event years of great prosperity he is buried with assassinated by his own sons while 2. Where is Sennacherib warring when Rabshakeh the greatest of the kings. He was twenty- worshiping in the temple of his god returns to him? five when he began to reign, and he has 3. What king comes against Sennacherib? Nisroch. 4. What are the contents of Sennacherib's letter to reigned twenty-nine years (I1 Kings Jerusalem? 18:1 ,2), so he is fifty-four when he dies. COMMENTS 5. What does Hezekiah do about the letter? 8. Whet messags does God send to Hezekiah through Isaiah? QUESTIONS en Sennacherib's officials 7. What happens to Sennacherib's army? 1 Recite the 2 memory-facts for this event return to him from Jerusalem, 8. What does Sennacherib do afterwards? 9. What ultimately happens to him in his own land? 2 What were some of the sources of Hezekiah's they find he has left Lachish wealth after the destruction of the Assyrian w army? (having defeated this great stronghold) 119. Hezekiah's Fifteen Years of 3 How long does he live after this event? and is now attacking Libnah (another Prosperity 4 In what special way does he distinguish himself important stronghold not far from above all kings of Judah? 5 How is he honored in his burial? Lachish). But he cannot bring to ASSIGNMENTS Sennacherib that Hezekiah has 120. The Exceeding Wickedness surrendered to his intimidation. Hearing 1. Study II Chron. 32:23,27-29,32,33; II of Manasreh the king of Ethiopia hasmarahedagainst Kings 20:20,21. 2. Study the event until you can tell it. him, Sennacherib has to march against ASSIGNMENTS him before going against Jerusalem. But 3. Memorize these facts about the event: a. God prospers Hezekiah after his he sends a letter to Jerusalem urging its 1. Study II Kings 21:1-16: II Chron. 33:l-9. deliverance from Sennacherib. 2. Study the event until you can tell it. surrender while going against the b. Hezekiah is greatly honored at his 3. Memorize these facts about the event: Ethiopians whom he routs. The letter death. contains the same type of message as a. The twelve-year-old Manasseh begins Rabshakeh delivered on his previous trip his fifty-five-year reign in Jerusalem. COMMENTS b. He is completely idolatrous, being to Jerusalem. Even though Isaiah had more wicked than the pagan nations assured Hezekiah God was going to take pecial mention is made of that inhabited the land before Israel. care of the blasphemous Sennacherib, the Hezekiah's growing wealth c. He does not listen to the prophets king still regards the threatening letter Sfollowing Judah's deliverance from God sends to rebuke him but kills enough that he takes it to the temple the Assyrians. First of all, we would them. where he spreads it out before the Lord as judge he retrieved the payoff treasures of he prays about it. God is pleased that the the temple and his palace he had earlier COMMENTS king talks his problems over with Him, sent to Sennacherib. So happy are the and He sends a very elaborate message to surrounding nations that the Assyrian ince he is only twelve when he him through the prophet Isaiah invasion is over that they send Hezekiah becomes king, and since he reverts concerning the overthrow of Sennacherib many presents, and he is well known Sto the idolatry his father Hezekiah and the complete deliverance of he among many nations. Then God blesses destroyed, it is a reasonable assumption kingdom from him. "He will not come Judah with abundant harvests of grain that the element that secretly did not go into this city, nor shoot an arrow there, and grapes and olives as well as along with Hezekiah's reformation now nor come before it with shield, nor cast a abundane of livestock. He is truly one of surfaces and influences his son in their bank against it," and he doesn't, for on Judah's greatest kings. Have you noticed direction. From the various types of that very night his total amy is smitten how much Biblical material is devoted to idolatry in which he is involved, he has to with death-one hundred eighty five his reign? This is because, as I1 Kings be the most wicked king Judah has ever thousand soldiers-and he goes back to 185 says, "He trusted in the Lord God of had. He worships Baal (the Phoenician Assyria without either his army or his Israel; so that after him was none like him deity of Ahab and Jezebel), the host of pride. When it says, "He dwelt at among all the kings of Judah, nor any that heaven (sun, moon, and stars), and DIVIDEDKINGDOM HISTORY 83

Molocli of tlie Anynorites ("he caused his 121, A Chastened Manasseh 3. Is God able to humble a powerful king who wiii not iislen to His prophets? children to pass through the fire"), He Repents 4. What Assyrian king appears to be the one who also engages in witchcraEt and sorcery. deported Manasseh to Babylon? ASS IG NM ENTS 5, Why is Manasseh restored to his throne in And he even desecrates God's temple by Jerusalem? brazenly setting up some of this idolatry hi tliat place where God has recorded His 1, Study II Chron. 33:10-13, 2. Study the event until you can tell it, 122, Mmasseh's Prosperous name, In fact, the abominable religious 3. Memorize these facts about the event: Years in Jerusalem practices lie follows in Jerusalem make a, Because Manasseh will not listen to him and Judah more corrupt even than the prophets, God chastens him with ASSIGNMENTS those pagan nations God had driven out personal captivity in Babylon. when He gave this land to Israel. His b. He humbles himself, recognizes 1. Study II Chron. 33:14-17, father Hezekiah would "turn over in his Jehovah as God, and is mercifully 2. Study the event until you can tell it, grave" if he lawwhat his son is doing. restored to his rule in Jerusalem. 3, Memorize these facts about the event: But God who sees all that goes on will a. He fortifies Jerusalem and Judah's COMMENTS defense cities. not be blind to what Manasseh is doing, b, He destroys the idolatry he formerly He sends prophets to speak His anasseli is probably a worshiped, displeasure, telling them that such c, He restores Jehovah worship he wickedness nullifies God's promise to combination of being deceived formerly stopped. sustain them in the land He has given Mas to who is Deity and wlio them and actually foretelling the aren't and of kingly pride. God will later COMMENTS destruction of Jerusalem to be€all it deal with the proud Babylonian monarch because of their sins. The Jewish Nebucliadnezzar in much the same way anasseh's case gives us hope historian Joseplius states that King He here deals with the king of Judali who concerning people who are not Manasseh put to death the righteous and will not listen to God's prophets. The few Mright at the present. Maybe even killed the prophets. Jewish tradition verses here do not give us much their present pattern will not be has it that the prophet Isaiah was placed elaboration about an Assyrian invasion, permanent, God's dealings may yet inside a hollow log which Manasseh the deportation of Manasseh to far-away change their course as it has Manasseh's. commanded to be sawed through. This Babylon, in what year of Manasseh's Remember Saul of Tarsus also. When could be what Heb. 11:34 refers to when reign it occurs, how long he is there, who Manasseh comes back to power, he is a it speaks of some being %awn asunder". rules while he is gone, nor of the process dif€erent person: "old things" (idolatry) These deaths, then, would be the of Manasseh's thinking in Babylon that have passed away with something "new" "imocent blood" which lie sheds, It takes finally gets him restored. This captivity to him (Jehovah worship) taking its place. courage to rebuke, for you are dealing must have come during the Assyrian king It is good to know that the God who can with the honesty of the human ego. Will Essarliaddon wlio mentions Manasseh chasten a sinning person can also bless the person accept the rebuke? This is the among his tributaries, and "Barnes" that person when he gets right-as He worthy purpose behind a proper rebuke. mentions that he is the only king of does in Manasseh's case. We are A rebuke not accepted can result in the Assyria who €rom time to time held his especially glad to see him take away the loss of friendship or in being villified or cow at Babylon, We know it takes a idols he €ormerly worshiped and renew even in being killed. John the Baptist's powerful God to deal with a stubbom temple-worship. The road of repentance rebuke resulted in iniprisoiment and king like Manassell, but the king who will is the same €or us all: we must react finally death, not listen to God's rebuke delivered against our former sins and begin doing through prophets is completely humbled God's will. Anythitig other than this is not QUESTIONS by His powerful hand o€ chastening. really repentance. "Barnes" places v. 14 Upon being restored to his throne he I. Recile tile 3 memory-facls for this evenl. quite a ways along in Manasseh's reign 2. Why might a son of the righteous Hezekiah turn knows now that Jehovah is God. How his when he comments, "We may gather from back to idolatry? €ather Hezeltiah would rejoice if he knew 3. What are some of the pagan gods Manasseh this verse that late in his reigi Manasseh worships? this! revolted from the Assyrians and made 4. How does his corruption compare with the heathen preparations to resist thein if they should nations God drove ovt before Joshua? QUESTIONS 5. What does such wickedness do to God's promises attack him." And when that verse opens, concerning the promised land? 1. Recite the 2 memory-iaots for this event. "Now after this," it allows for such a 6. What does God do at this time about Manasseh's 2. Besides probably being deceived as to who Deity is, passage oitime. While Manasseh does all wickedness? what is another problem of 7. How far does Manasseh go in rejecting the Manasseh's? he can to correct the evil he has instituted, prophets of God? it still does not eradicate it all, €or when 84 DIVIDEDKINGDOM HISTORY

Nebuchadnezzar will later invade Judah, probably full, and the later kings (from have been rebuked by prophets but I1 Kings 24:3,4 says, "Surely at the Ahaz downwards) had to find sepulchres refused their rebuke. commandment of the Lord came this elsewhere. Ahaz was buried in Jerusalem, upon Judah, to remove them out of his but not in the sepulchres of the kings (I1 QUESTIONS sight, for the sins of Manasseh, according Chron. 28:27). Hezekiah found a 1. Recite the 2 memoly-facts for this event. to all that he did: and also for the restingplace on the way that led up to 2. Do young people always listen to the warnings of innocent blood that he shed: for he filled David's catacomb (I1 Chron. 32:33). a previous generation concerning their ways? 3. What seems to be implied when it says he daes Jerusalem with innocent blood; which the Manasseh and Amon were interred in 'the not humble himself before God? Lord would not pardon." God had to garden of Uzza,' a portion apparently of punish Judah for what happened to His the royal palace-garden; perhaps so called 125+Amon is Assassinated by His people and prophets. Manasseh's story after the name of the previous owner. Servants reminds your writer of a man from Josiah was buried in 'his own sepulchre' Bandon, Ireland who gave Bandon, (I1 Kings 23:30)." His fifty-five-year ASSIGNMENTS Oregon its name. He brought here a reign is the longest in either Judah or hedge plant called "Gorse" that he liked Israel. 1. Study II Kings 21:23-26; II Chron. in Ireland but which spread all out of 33:24,25. 2. Study the event until you can tell it. control in Oregon and clear down into QUESTIONS 3. Memorize these facts about the event: California and which because of its resin I. Recite the 2 memoly-facts for this event. a. His servants slay him in his own makes forest fires worse. In his will the 2. Whose great example of earnest prayer under house. man left his money to fight the plague of extreme distress does Manasseh imitate? 3. Why is he probably buried in his own garden? b. The people slay them and make his gorse! 4. How many years has he reigned? son Josiah king.

QUESTIONS 124. The New King Reverts to COMMENTS

1. Recite the 3 memory-facts for this event. Idolatry 2. What actions show Manasseh is a totally different e are not told why his servants person now? ASSIGNMENTS slay him. It is probably a 3. Why does "Barnes" think he is building up his military fortifications? Wjudgment from God. It does 1. Study II Kings 21:19-22; II Chron. 33:21- account for the shortness of his reign (two 123. Summarizing Words about 23. years). What they do does not set well 2. Study the event until you can tell it. with the people of the land, for they kill Manasseh 3. Memorize these facts about the event: a. The new king Amon is Manasseh's the assassins, and they crown Amon's son ASSIGNMENTS son, is twenty-two at the beginning of Josiah to replace him. Thus comes the his reign, and he will have a short king the young prophet of I Kings 13 1. Study It Kings 21:17,18; II Chron. 33:18- rule of two years. predicted by name around three hundred 20. b. He restores some of the idolatry once and fifty years beforehand. He will prove 2. Study the event until you can tell it. practiced by his father. 3. Memorize these facts about the event: to be one of Judah's best kings and its last a. Special mention is made of the good king. prophets who spoke to him, his being COMMENTS humbled, and the prayer he prayed. QUESTIONS udah is getting worse. Hezekiah was b. He is buried in his own garden. 1. Recite the 2 memory-facts for this event. a good king. Manasseh was bad and 2. Why does Amon rule only two years? COMMENTS later good. Amon is never good. 3. What indicates the people of the land do not go J along with the, assassination? Things getting back into a bad condition 4. What kind of king will Josiah prove to be? es, Manasseh did sin (and how!), will call for the revival under Amon's son he was humbled (ditto), and he Josiah, the last revival Judah will 12& A Boy-King tor Judah Ymust have prayed some prayer to experience before its ruin and captivity. have it mentioned as it is here. The Again we are made to marvel at another ASSIGNMENTS praying example of his father Hezekiah reversion to idolatry. Won't children ever probably came before his mind in his learn? But don't we often see the same 1. Study II Kings 22:1,2; II Chron. 34:1,2. predicament in Babylon, and God heard thing today-young people not taking 2. Study the event until you can tell it. his prayer as he had his father's. Why is warning from their previous generation? 3. Memorize these facts about the event: When it mentions he did not humble a. Josiah is only eight when he begins he buried in his own garden? "Barnes" to reign. observes, "The catacomb of David was himself as Manasseh did, he must surely b. He will reign thirty-one years. DIVIDEDKINGDOM HISTORY 05

c. He Is good like King David. Napbtali of the old Northern Kingdom workers' expenditure of tlie money, for area, His scattering tlie dust of their tliey are all counted very true and faithful COMMENTS destroyed images on tlie graves of those men. The same was true when former who once sacrificed to them and burning King Joash repaired the temple (I1 Kings udah has had two other boykings: flie bones of the idolatrous priests on their 12:15). Joash was seven (I1 Chron,24:1) and altars further demonstrate his utter JManasseli twelve (I1 Chron, 33: 1), contempt for every aspect of idolatry, QUESTIONS His righteous reign probably contributes How such a king must have pleased God 1. Recite the 2 memory-facts for this event. toward its length of tliirtyFoneyears, 11 is even as our all-out service to Him today 2. Why is the temple in need of repair? good have ruling in tlie city of David a 9. How old is Josiah when he orders this project? to does! 4, Who are the three men Josiah puts In charge of It? good king like David, How is it that 6, Who does not have to give account of the Josiah is a good king? Some see in those QUESTIONS expenditure of the money, and why don't they? who assassinated Amon an intention to 1. Reoite the 2 memory-facts for this lesson. overthrow the line of David on the throne, 2, How old is Josiah when he begins to seek the God 199, The Book of the law Is accounting for the people of the land of his father David? Found 3. How old is he when he begins his first campaign bringing them to justice and putting them against idolatry? ASSIGNMENTS to death, If so, those who bring up the 4. To what extremes does he go in showing his contempt for idolatry? young king to his maturity impress upon 1, Study II Kings 22:&23:20,24-27; II his young mind the right way to go-to 128, Josiah Orders the Temple Chron. 34:14-33, be a good king like David, He will be, Repaired 2, Study the event until you can tell it, 3. Memorize these facts about the event: QUESTIONS ASSIGNMENTS a, The book of the law is found in the temple, 1. Recite the 3 memory-facts for this event. 2. Who were the other two boy-kings of Judah? 1. Study I1 Kings 22:3-7; II Chron. 34:8-13, b, Shaphan reads it to Josiah, who 3. How migM we account for Josiah being a good king 2. Study the event until you can tell it. sends men to inquire of the Lord , when coming to power so young? 3. Memorize these facts about the event: concerning its warnings. a. In preparation for repairing the temple c. Huldah, the prophetess, says Judah 127. Josiah Reacts against will be severely punished for its sins the Levites gather money from the Idolatry in His Eighth Year remnant of Israel and all of Judah. but not in Josiah's day. d. The king has the book read to the b. This money is given to the workmen ASSIGNMENTS to repair the damage done to the people after which he makes a temple by former idolatrous kings. covenant with God to be obedient to 1. Study II Chron. 34:3-7. the law, and he has the people also Study the event until you can tell it. 2. COMMENTS pledge their obedience, 3. Memorize these facts about the event: e. Josiah inaugurates a new campaign a. In the eighth year of his reign he against idolatry throughout Judah and personally began to seek Jehovah, he once-beautiful temple of even at Bethel where he fulfills the b. In the twelfth year of his reign he Solomon, now several hundred ancient prediction about: himself. began to purge Judah and Tyear old, has been abused during surrounding areas of idols. the reigns of various idolatrous kings COMMENTS before Josiah. He wants to see the temple COMMENTS put into a good state of repair, so he mmediately the king summons the sends Levites throughout Judah and leaders and the people of Judah to the he eighth year of his reign finds Benjamin as well as among the remnant Itemple so they can hear all the words Josiah twenty years old at which up in Manasseh and Ephraim to take up of the law of God. The king publicly Ttime he personally begins to seek money for this worthy project. In the promises God he will abide by His law, the God of his father David. He is now eighteenth year of his reign, (when he was and he calls on the people to do the same. mature enough that he wants his reign to twenty-six) he places three capable men As a consequence every form of idolatry be as righteous before God as was (Shaphan, a scribe; Maaseiah, governor is destroyed, and the idolatrous priests are David's. Worshiping the true God over Jerusalem; and Joah, recorder) over killed. Some of this traces all the way involves rejection of false gods, so when the project, They give the Levite-gathered back to the idolatry of Solomon. And in be is twenty-four he conducts his first offering into the hands of various his rampage he goes to Bethel to destroy campaign against idolatry, not only in foremen who give it to the men doing the that idolatrous altar set up by Jeroboam Jerusalem and Judah but also in actual work, It is interesting to notice that that ultimately caused the Northern Manasseh, Ephraim, Simeon, and no accounting is called for concerning the 86 DIVIDEDKINGDOM HISTORY

Kingdom to be destroyed. While there to b. The II Chron. account contains many c. After Pharaoh-Necho fails to break down that altar he notices the of the strict details of its observance. dissuade him, a battle ensues in sepulchres of the idolatrous priests who which Josiah is mortally wounded. one time officiated at that altar, and he COMMENTS d. He dies (probably on the trip back to brings out their bones and burns them on Jerusalem), and Jeremiah leads the that altar, thus fulfilling to the letter the ow it is the eighteenth year of nation in lamentation over him. prophecy in I Kings 13:2: "0 altar, altar, Josiah's reign, and he is twenty- thus saith the LORD; Behold, a child N six years old. He has not only COMMENTS shall be born unto the house of David, reacted against idolatry, but he now Josiah by name; and upon thee shall he wishes to carry out his covenant to be ith the death of Josiah we offer the priests of the high places that obedient to God. During Hezekiah's reign, move into the end-years of burn incense upon thee, and men's bones you may recall from I1 Chron. 30, he too WJudah before its Babylonian shall be burnt upon thee.'' According to called a great Passover-the greatest Captivity. In summary of these years Ussher's date-system the prophecy was Passover that had been held since the time "Smith" says, "The twenty-three years uttered 35 1 years prior to this fulfillment. of Solomon (v. 26). But now Josiah calls following the death of Josiah were the But when Josiah notices the sepulchre of an even greater. You should notice in the 'dying time' of the . the young prophet who faithfully uttered details of Josiah's Passover as covered in These were tragic days when petty this prophecy, he respectfully commands I1 Chron. how careful he is to see that politicians repeated foolish mistakes not to disturb his sepulchre. everythg is done according to the will of which drug the nation down to oblivion. While Hezekiah was Judah's greatest God. And we who carry out the will of In spite of the heroic preaching of king in his trusting God (I1 Kings 18:5), God today need to be equally as careful Jeremiah, the nation sank ever deeper into Josiah is its greatest king in his that we do everything according to God's apostasy and rebellion. The final scenes opposition to idolatry and his zeal for revealed will. Heb. 12:28 says, unfold like those in a Shakespearian Jehovah-worship. "Wherefore we receiving a kingdom tragedy: (1) the death and burial of which cannot be moved, let us have grace, Josi ah...; (2) the reign and removal of QUESTIONS whereby we may serve God acceptably Jehoahaz...; (3) the reign and rebellion of Jehoiakim...; (4) the reign and deportation 1. Recite the 5 memory-facts for this event with reverence and godly fear," assuring 2. Why was the law of God kept in the temple? us that even in the New Testament times of Jehoiachin...; (5) the revolt and 3. What emotion is aroused in the king as he hears that our God of love and mercy is also a punishment of Zedekiah...; (6) the the reading of the Scriptures? aftermath of the fall of Jerusalem... ." 4. What does he send messengers to find out? ''consuming fire" (v. 29) for deliberate 5. What good and what bad news does the prophetess disobedience to His plan. Josiah is thirty-eight, and the thirty- give his messengers? one-year reign of this good king of Judah 6. Why is Judah less excusable for its ways than even Israel had been? QUESTIONS is about to come to an unexpected, abrupt 7. What covenant with God does Josiah make and ask end. A glance at what is happening in the people to make also? 1. Recite the 2 memory-facts for this event How old is king Josiah at this time? history will help us see what happens. 8. After this Josrah destroys every form of 2. 3. How great is this Passover said to be? and even kills the idolatrous ___ In very recent times the rising 4. Can you name at least two details that are 9. AI Bethel what allar does he break down, and Babylon has overthrown Nineveh and mentioned in its observance? whose bones does he burn? taken over the Assyrian-held territories. IO. How long ago had this been predicted? 5. Why should we who serve today also be careful 11 Whose sepulchre at Bethel does he not d~sturb? about doing everything according to Gods plan? Nabopolassar, its conqueror, even 12. In what sense is he the greatest king Judah ever considered himself to be "king of had? 131. Joslah Meets an Untimely Assyria". It is against this king of Assyria End 130. losfah Observes a Great that the Egyptian Pharaoh-Necho is Passover marching, attempting to halt the further ASSIGNMENTS build-up of Babylon. As he is on his way ASSIGNMENTS 1. Study II Chron. 3520-27; II Kings 23:28- to do battle at Carchemish up north, he is 30. passing along Judah. But Josiah opposes 1. Study II Kings 23:21-23; II Chron. 351- 2. Study the event until you can tell it. Necho's passage, maybe wanting to ally 19. 3. Memorize these facts about the event: himself with the rising Babylon, for civil 2. Study the event until you can tell it, a. Pharaoh-Necho is passing by to war treatment down the line. The Egyptian 3. Memorize these facts about the event: at Carchemish. tries to discourage Josiah's attempt to a. In Josiah's eighteenth year of reign he b. Somehow Josiah goes out against keep him from proceeding, and a battle calls the greatest Passover him. breaks out near the important mountain- observance that has been since pass city Megiddo in which Josiah is Samuel's day. DiViDED KINGDOMHISTORY 87

iiiortally wounded, He is put into his Jelioahaz was born. Immediately does tlie 1, Study II Kings 23:35-24:7; II Chron, "second chariot", a lighter chariot €or the prophet Jeremiah enter the scene, 36:5-8; Jer. 26:l-24; Jer. 251-38; liurried trip back lo Jerusalein, But jt is promising hiin if he will be a godly king, Jer* 36:1-32; Jer. 22:13-1Qr all to no avail as lie dies (probably 011 the Eollowiiig the good example of his father, 2, Study the event until You can tell it, way home), Oh, it is a sad hefor Judah, Jerusalem will be blessed with good kings 3. Memorize these facts about the event: €or it has held Josiah in the higliest occupying the famous throne of David. a. Jehoiakim is twentyfive as he begins his eleven-year reign, respect. And the good people themselves But that is not the way tlie new king b, He raises the tribute money for grieve, God's prophet Jeremiah is in the wishes to go even though Jeremiah has Egypt. beginning of his many years as a prophet told him of the COliiilig desolation Of C. He proves to be a very wicked king. in the Jerusalem area, and he leads the Jerusalem if he goes the ungodly route, It d, A temple speech by Jeremiah in the nation in a national lamentation. And well is likely because of his re€usal to hearken beginning of Jehoiakim's reign almost iiiight Judah iiiourn, €or it will not have to God's message that tlie tide twis costs him his life. another good king, and well might tlie against him, and lie is sun~nonedbefore e, Babylon's first invasion Of Judah+ prophet mourn, for lie will iiever get to Pharaoh-Necho at Riblah, two liundred fs As early as Jehoiakim's fourth year work with another good king of Judah. iniles north of Jerusalem. It is likely at Jeremiah predicts a, seventy-year Josiah's soil Jehoahaz is liis successor, this time that Jeremiah utters tlie rest of captivity for Judah as the king of Babylon subdues many nations, 'lis proplieCy in Jer* "Weep ye not €Or 22: g, Because he is locked up, Jeremiah QUESTIONS the dead, neither bemoan him: but weep sends Baruch to the temple with a 1 Recite the 4 memory-facts for this event sore for hiin that goeth away; €or he shall message to be read to the people, 2 HOW old IS Josiah when Pharaoh-Neoho is passing return no more, nor see his native h. Jeremiah foretells Jehoiakim's sad by? country.,,He shall not return thither any end. 3 How long has he reigned? 4 Where IS Necho going and why? more; but he shall die in the place whither 5 Does Necho want to engage Josiah in a battle? they have led him captive, and shall see COMMENTS 6 When Josiah foolishly persists, what happens? 7 Where does the skirmish take place? this landnomore" (vs. 10.12). At %blah 8 Who leads the nation in a lamentation? lie is removed €ram being king, his or some reason there is more about Q What about the future for Judah and for Jeremiah? brother Elialcim will be made king Jehoiakim in the book of Jer. than instead, he is bound with chains to be Fin Kings and Chron. That is Ia2*lehoahaz is King for Only taken to Egypt, and Judah is assessed probably because of the various messages three Months with a tribute of silver and gold, And as God gave Jeremiah during Jehoiakim's Jeremiah prophesied, he did not return to terrible rei@* ASSIGNMENTS Jerusaleni but died in Egypt. When the Jehoiakim's first recorded act is one of 1. Study II Kings 2331-34; iI Chron. 36:i-4; Kings' account says N&o lnakes Eliakim necessity-exacting of his people the Jer. 22:l-12. king in the place of his father Josiah, it tribute of silver and gold demanded by 2. Study the event until you can tell it. shows that Necho never really recognizes Necho of EWt. After this event it is 3. Memorize these facts about the event: Jehoahaz as king. admittedly difficult to arrange a. Jehoahaz (called 'Shallum" in Jer. 22) chronologically what we know about the is twenty-three. QUESTIONS events of his reign from tlie brief b. God makes a great promise to him coverage in Gigs and Chron. through His prophet Jeremiah 1. Recite the 5 memory-faots for this event. 2. What promise does Jeremiah make to Jehoahaz? supplemented with longer but dated concerning the possible future of 3. What does he predict if Jehoahaz is not a godly material in Jer. along with secular Jerusalem. king? history's own contributions. c. But Jehoahaz does not listen, 4. Whish route does Jehoahaz take? What does God bring on him as a result? choosing rather to be idolatrous. 6. Jer. 26 is related to the beginning of 6. What special prediction does Jeremiah make about his reign when Jeremiah is divinely sent d. He is on the throne only three months Jehoahaz? when Pharaoh-Necho summons him, 7. Who beoomes lting instead of Jehoahaz? to the temple with a message to the deposes him, replaces him with his 8. What further sign of Egypt's supremacy over Judah people coining there to worship. The takes place? brother, and puts Judah to tribute. 0. Eiiakim's name is changed to what? message shows Solomon's beautiful e. Jehoahaz is taken to Egypt where he temple is doomed to destruction unless lives the rest of his days. 133, Jeholaklm's Wicked Reign Judah repents, The message does not go over well with either the princes, prophets COMMENTS ASSIGNMENTS (false prophets), or the people, for they say to Jeremiah, "Thou shalt surely die." ehoahaz is twenty-three, meaning his Jerenliah warns them of the definite doom Jfather Josiali was sixteen when they will bring by killing him, and liis life 88 DIVIDEDKINGDOM HISTORY

is spared by the wisdom of those who Baruch and Jeremiah to be taken (vs. 20- ehoiakim's death elevates his brother remember that Micah prophesied the 26). Jeremiah replaces the burned scroll Jehoiachin to power at the age of same things, and Hezekiah did not kill with one carrying the same message plus Jeighteen. Nebuchadnezzar continues him. Jehoiakim does kill Urijah, a fellow- some personal words of punishment for his campaign begun under Jehoiakim. The prophet of Jeremiah. the wicked king ("his dead body shall be outcome is obvious from the report of Now that Nebuchadnezzar and his cast out in the day to the heat, and in the Jehoiachin's surrender after only three Babylonian army have decisively defeated night to the frost"). It may be at this time months on the throne. He, aloilg with Pharaoh-Necho at the Battle of that Jeremiah pronounces a woe on thousands of others including Ezekiel (see Carchemish, he comes south and begins Jehoiakim for his extravagant living in Eze. 1:1-3), as well as many more temple- subjecting countries to himself. It is 606 such dark days for the nation (Jer. 22: 13- vessels and much treasure, are deported B.C., (the third year of Jehoiakim) when 17) for which he goes on to talk about his to Babylon, just as God had foretold to he comes against Jerusalem and subdues tragic end-nobody to lament for him and Hezekiah earlier (I1 Kings 20:17). This it, taking Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach, to have "the burial of and ass" (no burial second captivity comes in 597 B.C. Abednego, and likely others along with at all). Though at one time he is bound in Jehoiachin has no son to be made king some of the temple-vessels to Babylon. chains to be taken to Babylon (I1 Chron. after him, and being confined to a prison This turns out to be an important date, 36:6), that is not what happens to him, in Babylon for many years he likely does and the date fkom which the seventy years Some think he is ultimately assassinated not marry and hence remains "childless". of Judah's Babylonian Captivity will be and his body left in the field to rot while It is surprising to read in I1 Kings 25:27- dated. Since Jehoiakim will rule for Josephus has Nebuchadnezzar returning, 30 that a later Babylonian monarch eleven years, it is obvious he is left on the having him killed, and throwing his dead releases him after he was imprisoned for throne. In the next year of Jehoiakim's body over the wall. thirty-seven years and befriends him. reign (his fourth) Jeremiah is sent to the temple again with a reminder of Judah's QUESTiONS QUESTIONS historic disobedience, and that God will 1. Recite the 9 memory-facts for this event 1. How old is Jehoiachin when he becomes king? again bring Nebuchadnezzar against 2. Where does Jehoiakim obtain the tribute money for 2. How long does he get to be king? Judah and all its neighboring countries. In Pharaoh-Necho? 3. What is the date of this second deportation? 3. When do they tell Jeremiah, "Thou shalt surely die"? 4. What all go to Babylon? the message he also tells Judah its time in 4. What saves him from death? 5. What man who later became a prophet is also Babylon will involve seventy long years! 5. What happens to Daniel and his three friends? included? A study of Lev. 26:31-35 and I1 Chron. 6. What is significant about the date 606 B C 7 6. What about Jehoiachin's offspring? 7. Why does God set their captivity at seventy years? 7. How long is he imprisoned before being released by 36:20,21 indicates the seventy-year 8. Tell about the scroll written by Baruch at Jeremiah's a later ruler? length was determined by the number of dictation? sabbatical years they had not let the land Q. What end does Jeremiah predict for Jehoiakim? 135, Jeremiah Sends a letter to rest in obedience to God's specific 134, Another Deportation to the Captives commandment to do so. Babylon In the same fourth year Jeremiah ASSIGNMENTS summons his scribe Baruch to take his ASSIGNMENTS dictated message and read it in the 1. Study Jer. 29:l-32. 2. Study the event until you can tell it. temple, for he says, "I am shut up; I 1. Study II Kings 24:8-16; 11 Chron. 36:9,fO; 3, ~~~~~i~~these facts about the event: Jer. 22:24-30. cannot go to the house of the Lord;" a. He reminds them that God says the 2. Study the event until you can tell it. which Baruch does (Jer. 36:l-8). The Babylonian Captivity will be seventy 3. Memorize these facts about the event: next year a national fast is proclaimed years. a. Jehoiachin succeeds his dead brother (Jer. 36:9), possibly brought on by what Since it will be that long, they should Jehoiakim. we read in I1 Kings 24:2-unless this settle down in Babylon and make that b. He is eighteen years old. their home for those years. verse covers various harassments God c. His wickedness causes He assures them of Judah's ultimate sends during Jehoiakim's reign. Anyway, Nebuchadnezzar to affect his return if they seek God with all their during the national fast Baruch again surrender. heart. reads in the temple Jeremiah's dictated d. He, thousands of Judah, and more A curse is pronounced on two false temple-vessels and treasure are taken message, which a man Michaiah tells to prophets among them in Babylon. to Babylon. Ezekiel is included among the princes, who think the scroll should A curse is also pronounced on a false the captives. be read to the king (Jer. 36:lO-19). But letter writer. when the king hears the early part of it, e. No child of his will rule in Jerusalem. he takes the copy, cuts it up, and throws COMMENTS it into the fire, and commands both COMMENTS DIVIDEDKINGDOM HISTORY 89

lie prophet Jeremiah does not want c, He will be Judah's last king. COMMENTS tliose who have gone into captivity Tto have aiiy false illusioiis as to its COMMENTS eremiah is not called to an easy life leiigtli, It was going to involve seventy as a prophet of God. At the time of years, which would encompass the s we come to this last king of Jhis call God said, "I have made thee lifetime of all but the very youngest. So either the Southern or Nortlieni this day a defenced city, and an iron they should settle in and make Babylon A kingdoms, we will see the pillar, and brasen walls against the whole their home, Nor does he want to see them ultimate end of Solomon's once glorious land, against the kings of Judah, against dimiiiisbed in number, for in time God kingdom, brought down because of the princes tlierof, against the priests will return thein to their land-provided idolatry, the sin of which he himself was thereof, and against tlie people of tlie tliey seek Him with their whole heart, No guilty and for which his kingdom was land. And tliey shall fight against thee; wonder, then, that wlien tlie righteous divided, We are also reminded of how but they shall not prevail against thee; for Dadlater figurred out in the sixtyeighth foolish it was for the people in the days of I am with thee, saitli the Lord, to deliver year of their captivity that they would Samuel to request (demand) a king so thee" (Jer. 1:18,19)4 soon be able to return to Palestine, he set tliey could be like other nations. Their In our event he is in die temple using an his "face unto the Lord God, to seek by kings have cost them their kingdom, object (a wooden yoke) to show tlie long prayer and supplications, with fasting, As is so often the case, the new king is servitude of their people over in Babylon, and sackcloth and ashes" (Dan. 9: 1-3). given a different name-Zedekiah (by Wien Peter wrote that there had been But the captives are plagued with two which we shall know him) instead of false prophets among the people (I1 Pet, false prophets who are speaking Mattaniah, He is twenty-one and will 2:1), he niust have had in mind such otherwise about their captivity, They are survive for eleven years before the final persons as Hananiah of tlie city Gibeon, an Ahab and a Zedekiah who will captivity of his people. for he falsely prophesies in the name of ultimately be burned to death in the Lord, saybig, "Thus speaketh the Lord Nebuchadnezzar's furnace, Among tlie QUESTIONS of hosts..,I, have broken the yoke of the captives is also a man Shemaiah who has 1 Recite the 3 memory-facts for this event king of Babylon. Within two full years sent letters back to Jerusalem against 2 What mistake did the people make in the days of will I bring again into this place all the Samuel? .,. Jeremiah for which Jeremiah tells him all 3 What sin did Solomon commit that caused his vessels and......with all the his offspring will be cut off, none getting kingdom to be divided? captives." It is probably in sarcasm that to return wlien Judali comes back. 4 What sin has brought ruin to both segments? Jeremiah says, "Amen: the Lord do so." And then to symbolize what he said, QUESTIONS '13'* lererniah-_and - Wooden Hanaiiiah takes Jeremiah's wooden yoke Yoke 1. Recite the 5 memory-facts for this event and breaks it before all the people. God 2. What does Jeremiah instruct them to do since the has Jeremiah take an iron yoke and ASSIGNMENTS captivity will be seventy years long? predict his death within tlie current year 3. On what basis will Judah get to return at the end of those seventy years? 1. Study Jer. 28:l-17. for teaching rebellion against tlie Lord's 4. When those seventy years are almost up, what will 2, Study the event until you can tell It. word. It is the fifth moiitli when this the prophet Daniel do? temple skirmish takes place (v.l), and 6. What does Jeremiah say will befall their two false 3. Memorize these facts about the event: prophets, Ahab and Zedekiah? a, Evidently Jeremiah has just told the Hanaiiiali is dead within two months 6, What captive In Babylon wrote letters back to temple crowd again that the captivity (v. 17). Jerusalem opposing Jeremiah? will last seventy years and is wearing 7. What curse does Jeremiah say will befall him for a wooden yoke on. his neck to QUESTIONS this? symbolize that captivity. b, ~~~~~i~h,false claiming 1. Recite the 3 memory-facts for this event. 136, Xedekiah Becomes Judah's 2. What object is Jeremiah using with which to teach his God has spoken to him, tells Jeremiah lesson7 last King in the presence of the priests and 3. What lesson is he teaching? people that the captivity will last only 4. What does a false Prophet do and say? ASSIGNMENTS two years before ~~d~his 5. What is the false prophet's name? 6. What kind of yoke does Jeremiah next take7 brought lie then takes the yoke 7. What does he prophesy about the false prophet? 1. Study iI Kings 24:17-19: II Chron. off Jeremiah's neck and breaks it to 8. What happens to the false prophet? 36:i 1,12; Jer. 37:1,2; Jer. 52:i ,2. symbolize what he is saying. 2, Study the event until you can tell it. c. God sends Jeremiah back to the 138, Nebuchadnezzar Lays Siege 3, Memorize these facts about the event: temple with a yoke of iron to Jerusalem a. Zedekiah is twenty-one as he (unbreakable) where he foretold becomes king. Hananiah's death that very year. ASSIGNMENTS b. He will reign eleven years. 98 DIVIDEDKINGDOM HISTORY

1. Read II Kings 25:1,2; II Chron. 36:13; message, and Jeremiah is faithfully 140. Egypt §ends Help Jer.21:I-12. delivering it. 2. Study the event until you can tell it. ASSIGNMENTS 3. Memorize these facts about the event: QUESTIONS Zedekiah revolts from under the Baby- I. Read Jer. 375-10. lonians. 1 Recite the 4 memory-facts for this event 2. Study the event until you can tell it. 2 Why will Zedekiah rebel against Babylon? Consequently Nebuchadnezzar march- 3 In what year of Zedekiah's reign does Nebuchad- 3. Memorize these facts about the event: es an army against Jerusalem in the nezzar and his army come against a. Babylon withdraws from Jerusalem ninth year of Zedekiah's reign. Jerusalem? when learning that help is coming Zedekiah sends to Jeremiah to inquire 4 What is meant by "laying siege"? from Egypt. 5 Why does the king send messengers to Jeremiah? of the Lord for him. 6 What message does he send to the king? b. Jeremiah assures Judah it is still Jeremiah tells him God is going to God's settled intention to destroy deliver the city into Nebuchadnezzar's 139, Another Message for Judah, and that Egypt will have to hand. Zedekia h retreat,

COMMENTS ASSIGNMENTS COMMENTS

s we continue studying the reign 1. Read Jer. 34:l-7. gypt is not the uncontested power of Judah's last king, it is 2. Study the event until you can tell it. it used to be, yet it is still stronger Anoticeable there is much material 3. Memorize these facts about the event: Ethan the lesser countries in the book of Jer.-actually more than in a. Nebuchadnezzar has soldiers attacking Nebuchadnezzar holds sway over. It is the II Kings and II Chron. This is because the Judah's defense cities as well as hope of Judah that Egypt's help will make prophet Jeremiah is personally connected Jerusalem. the difference, and its false prophets are with so much that takes place during his b. Jeremiah repeats God's intentions to deliver Jerusalem and Zedekiah into probably encouraging them with a false reign. the hand of Nebuchadnezzar, who will hope. But Jeremiah remains adamant: Conquering kings such as burn the city even though he will not Egypt's help will not be enough, it will Nebuchadnezzar like to put their kill Zedekiah. return into Egypt, and Jerusalem will fall conquered countries to tribute. The and be burned. In this grave time conquered pay it because they have to, COMMENTS Zedekiah is depending on the help of a but they do not like it. Occasionally they man whereas Hezekiah depended on the will revolt from under that financial od has been patient with Judah great help of God. So the outcome will be burden, often depending on some foreign and its continued wickedness for different, power to assist them in their rebellion (in Gmany years. He was ready to this case, Egypt). His rebellion brings destroy it earlier, but the prayers of king QUESTIONS Nebuchadnezzar and his army back to Hezekiah spared it. And God promised 1. Recite the 2 memory-facts for this event. Jerusalem. To "lay siege" is to surround the godly Josiah it would not happen in 2. How can Zedekiah get a false hope out of Egypt's Jerusalem so there is no coming in or coming to help? his lifetime. But God will be patient no 3. Why will that not change what is going to happen? going out, hoping after a few years to longer--Jerusalem is going to be starve them out when existing food destroyed and the rest of Judah taken 141, Jeremiah Rebukw the supplies give out. Then they can conquer captive. The day will come when People's Action at will without loss of their own soldiers. Zedekiah will personally be brought Quite a few times in the book of Jer. does before the great Nebuchadnezzar -of ASSIGNMENTS Zedekiah send to Jeremiah to have him Babylon. The only grain of comfort for inquire of God or to have him pray. In all Zedekiah in the whole message is that he 1. Read Jer. 34:8-22. of them Jeremiah will give him the same will not die in the war nor as a 2. Study the event until you can tell it. message: God is going to deliver Judah consequence of it and will be honored 3. Memorize these facts about the event: into the hand of Nebuchadnezzar, urging when he does die. a. Judah releases all its slaves. them to surrender and at least save their b. Later it put them back into bondage. c. Jeremiah is sent to pronounce a curse lives and the destruction of their city and QUESTIONS on them for doing this. telling them if they don't surrender, 1. Recite the 2 memowfacts for this event Nebuchadnezzar will destroy their land 2. During the feigns of what two righteous kings did God COMMENTS and remove them from it. This is not delay Jerusalem's destruction? good news to Zedekiah, but it is God's 3. What is the only bit of comfort for Zedekiah in God's message through Jeremiah? ou might ask why Judah would Yhave slaves and be slave-owners. DIVIDEDKINGDOM HISTORY 91

In those days wlieii a person got so much cistern, and he is returned to the Wheti Zedeltiah asks divine inforniation in debt that lie was hopeless to get out, lie prison court for the duration of the again from the prophet, Jeremiah begs would be sold as a slave to get tlie money war. hiin to obey what he tells him and not (see Matt, 1893-25; I1 Kings 4: l), Every g, God will take care of the good deliver him back into the cistern, The seventh year, though, every slave was Ethiopian. king actually makes an oath concerning €reed, and be was his own once more, Jeremiah's future safety, so Jeremiah tells COMMENTS Even though God had redeemed Israel him once more tlie same message as from Egyptian bondage, it is evident before, And the king keeps his word: he temporary withdrawal of the Judah iiot been freeing its slaves after Jeremiah will abide in tlie court of the has B a by1 oni ans Erom Jerusalein years of bondage and servitude, But prison until the day Jerusalem is taken. six affords Jereiiiah an opportunity to during the siege of Jerusalem,the king T Jeremiah assures tlie Ethiopian that God leave Jerusalem, for lie too has been shut orders it to be done, and the people will take care of him when Jerusalem up, unable to go to his neighboring home comply the order, It is probably after falls, with in Anatliotli (just northeast of Jerusalem), tlie Babylonian siege is lifted because of But he is interrupted at the gate where he the approach of tlie Egyptian army that QUESTIONS is accused of defecting to the Judah's slave-owners cancel tlie order and Babylonians. Of course, this is not true, 1. Recite the 7 memory-facts for this event. regather their slaves, This but €irtlier 2. Where is Jeremiah going when he is stopped? as lie explains, but it does liim no good- shows Judalfs disobedience to God's civil 3. With what do they charge him? he is a hated man and is put into a 4. What do they do wilh him? enactments, and He is highly displeased To where does the king move him? dungeon prison. In time the king takes 5. with its action and sends Jeremiah on 6. Where does a pressure-group get Jeremiah put? him fiom there, inquires of him again and 7. Who rescues him oul of there? another unwelcome job of rebuking their is toldtlie sane sad message, and assigns 8. What oath does the kim make concerning Jeremiah? action and reiterating what is going to liim to a more favorable prison quarter, befall the sinning nation, We might wonder why he doesn't release 143, Jerusalem Falls to the Babylonians QUESTIONS him altogether, but a study of Zedekiah's character shows him not to be the strong ASSIGNMENTS 1 Recite the 3 memory-facts for this event ruling type but the kind who bows to 2 in what way does Judah have slaves? 3 What are they supposed to do to their slaves pressure-groups, which he does by 1. Read II Kings 252-22; II Chron. 36:18-20; every seventh year? detaining him in prison. But this doesn't Jer. 39:2-14; Jer. 4O:I-6; Lam. 1:l- 4 Have they been doing this? set four leaders who remind the king 8,12. 5 Why do they free them now? with 6 Why do they take them back? of the adverse message of Jeremiah, and 2. Study the event until you can tell it. 7 Wth what message does God send Jeremiah to them they get hiin put down into a cistern 3. Memorize these facts about the event: at this time? where there is no water but mire into a. In Zedekiah's eleventh year the which Jeremiah sinks a ways. "Smith" Babylonians break through and take 142, Jeremiah Is Arrested and the city. Imprisoned says, "The pitiless princes wished this spokesman for God to die a slow, b. Zedekiah tries to escape, but they overtake him, kill his sons before his ASSIGNMENTS torturous, and frightful death...This eyes, put out his eyes, and take him experience is without question the lowest to Babylon. 1. Read Jer. 37:l--38:28; Jer. 39:15-18. point in the life of Jeremiah. He was now c. The Babylonians plunder Jerusalem 2. Study the event until you can tell it. aged and perhaps infirm. The siege and and burn it, including the temple and 3. Memorize these facts about the event: famine in Jerusalem had doubtless taken palace, a. Jeremiah takes the opportunity of its toll ... Though tlie long bitter years of d. They then batter down the walls. going to his hometown Anathoth. his ministry Jeremiah had learned tlie way e. The people are taken to nearby b. They suspect and accuse him of of patient endurance, He had learned to Ramah in preparation for the long defecting to the Babylonians. cast himself upon tlie Lord and trust Him journey to Babylon. C. Though Jeremiah disclaims the f. Jeremiah, being released from prison, accusation, they put him in a dungeon for deliverance." And God does not forget is given the choice of going to prison, his faithful prophet. When an Ethiopian Babylon and receiving good or staying d. Zedekiah inquires of Jeremiah again eunuch who serves in Zedekiah's house in the land with the few peasants left and removes him to a more favorable hears what they have done to Jeremiah, he to till the land. prison. pleads for the privilege of rescuing him g, Jeremiah chooses to remain, and he e. A pressure-group causes the king to out of there before lie dies. And so they writes the sorrowful words found in the put him into a abandoned cistern. lower cords and old rags made into cords book of Lam. f. An Ethiopian servant persuades and pull him up out of that terrible place. Zedekiah to get Jeremiah out of the COMMENTS 92 DIVIDEDKINGDOM HISTORY

fter plaguing Jerusalem with its Jerusalem, including the temple and because none come to the solemn feasts: presence for three years the palace and all its buildings. And the all her gates are desolate: her priests sigh, ABabylonian army breaks through wrecking crew also ' lays Jerusalem's her virgins are afflicted, and she is in the guards' resistance and begins its mighty walls to the ground. All this is in bitterness. Her adversaries are the chief, slaughter. The day Jeremiah has been the year 586 B.C. her enemies prosper; for the LORD hath forecasting has come in contrast to what Babylon's decision is to leave only the afflicted her for the multitude of her the false prophets have said. King poor to till the land for the king of transgressions: her children are gone into Zedekiah and some of the leaders flee Babylon, and Jeremiah is given the captivity before the enemy. And from the Jerusalem by night, heading east. But privilege either of going to Babylon as a daughter of Zion all her beauty is they are pursued and overtaken near guest or remaining with the poor of his departed: her princes are become like Jericho. Zedekiah and his leaders are people. He chposes the latter. After all the harts that find no pasture, and they are taken north to Riblah, where excitement is quieted down, he looks his gone without strength before the pursuer'' Nebuchadnezzar is, and the leaders are ruined Jerusalem over and writes, "How (Lam. 1: 1-6). And Jeremiah personifies slain, Zedekiah sees his sons slain just doth the city lie solitary, that was full of the destroyed Jerusalem and speaks for before they put out his eyes, and he is put people! how is she become as a widow! her, "Is it nothing to you, all ye that pass in chains to be taken to Babylon. Oh, how she that was great among the nations, and by? behold, and see if there be any sorrow much better off he would be and princess among the provinces, how is she like unto my sorrow, which is done unto Jerusalem if they had believed and heeded become tributary! She weepeth sore in the me, wherewith the LORD hath afflicted what Jeremiah had told them from God! night, and her tears are on her cheeks: me in the day of his fierce anger?" (Lam. Back at Jerusalem the Babylonians among all her lovers she hath none to 1:12). release Jeremiah, whom they have heard comfort her: all her friends have dealt about, and he is treated with great treacherously with her, they are become QUESTIONS kindness. He, along with the many her enemies. Judah is gone into captivity I. Recite the 8 memory-facts for this event. captives, are removed to nearby Ramah because of diction, and because of great 2. Why do the Babylonians treat Jeremiah so well? north of Jerusalem where the group is servitude: she dwelleth among the 3. Recall the vivid words that open the sorrowlul book readied for the long walk to Babylon. heathen, she findeth no rest: all her of Lam. From Ramah they can see the fire and persecutors overtook her between the smoke arising from the burning straits. The ways of Zion do mourn, FINAL ASSIGNMENTS

Now that you have made a study of the material, here are several assignments for you to do. 94 DIVIDEDKINGDOM HISTORY

ASSIGNMENT I

Study the following materials in preparation for quizzes at their ends.

THE KINGS OF JUDAH (Southern Kingdom)

1. Rehoboam.. .17 years.. .Bad...lo tribes revolted from under him 2. Abijah...3 years.. .Mostly bad.. .Trusted in God in battle with Jeroboam 3. Asa.. .4 1 years.. .Good...Reformer, but stubborn when rebuked by a prophet 4. Jehoshaphat.. 25years., ,Good.,.Reformer 5. Jehoram., .8 years.. .Bad...Kingdom disintegrated, had no royal burial 6. Ahaziah...l year.. .Bad...was killed by Jehu 7. Athaliah...6 years.. .Very bad.. .A usurper, was executed by Jehoiada 8. Joash., .40 years.. .Mostly good.. .Was good as long as Jehoiada lived 9. Amaziah...6 years.. .Mostly good...Defeated Edom, then worshiped some of its idols 10. Uzziah.. .52 years.. .Mostly good...Prosperous, became leprous for burning incense 11. Jotham.. .16 years.. .Good...Prosperous 12. Ahaz...16 years.. .Bad...Defeated by both Syria and Israel 13. Hezekiali...29 years.. .Good... Jerusalem spared from Sennacherib's army 14. Manasseh.. .55 years.. .Bad at first.. .Very idolatrous, repented under punishment 15. Amon.,.2 years.. .Bad...Was assassinated by his servants 16. Josiah., .3 1 years.. .Good...Reformer, died a foolish death 17. Jehoahaz.. .3 months. ..Bad.,.Deposed by Egypt 18. Jehoiakim.,. 11 years.. .Bad... 1st Babylonian Captivity in his reign 19. Jehoiachin.,.3 months.. .Bad...Deposed by Babylon 20. Zedekiah., , 11 years.. .Bad...Temple and kingdom were destroyed by Babylon

QuIZ OVER "THE KINGS OF JUDAH" 1. Say the 20 rulers in order. 2. Which ruler was a usurper? 3. Name the 8 rulers who were either good or mostly good.

4. M reigned 55 years, U reigned 52 years, A reigned 41 years, J reigned 40 years, J reigned 3 1 years, H reigned 29 years, and J reigned 25 years. 5. J and J reigned only 3 months each. 6. A was executed by Jehoiada. 7. The following kings were killed: A and A 8. The 10 Northern tribes revolted from under 9. became leprous for burning incense. 10. died a foolish death. 11. The temple and Southern Kingdom were destroyed during Is reign.

THE KINGS OF ISRAEL (Northern Kingdom)

1, Jeroboam., .22 years.,.Bad.. . Set up the golden calves 2. Nadab.. .2 Years.. .Bad...Was assassinated by Baasha DIVIDEDKINGDOM HISTORY 95

3, Baasha. ,,24 years.,,Bad,, .Was condemned by the prophet Jehu

4. Elah,.,2 years.,.Bad., e Was assassinated by Zimri 5. Zimri.,,7 days,,.Bad., .Burned himself to escape being killed 6. Omri..-12 years., .Very bad,,,Moved the capital to Samaria 7. Ahab,,22 years,,,The worst.,,Husband of Jezebel, hated the prophets Elijah and Micaiah 8, Ahaziah,,,2 years.,,Bad., ,Sent bands of soldiers to take Elijah 9, Jehoram,,,l2years,,.Bad,,,Was killed by Jehu 10, Jehu. .,28years., .Bad. Destroyed Baalism and the house of Ahab 11, Jehoahaz,,,17 years.,,Bad, <,Was oppressed by both Hazael and Benhadad of Syria 12, Jehoash,.,16 years..,Paid respect to Elisha in the prophet's final illness 13, Jeroboam II,,,41 years. ,Bad,,.Had a reign of prosperity in the days of Amos 14, Zachariah.,,6 months,,,Bad., ,Was assassinated by Shallum 15, Shallum.., 1 month.,.Bad., ,Was assassinated by Menahem 16, Menahem,,.10 years ...Bad,,.Was invaded by Assyria 17, Peltahiah,,.2years,..Bad,..Was assassinated by Pekah 18. Pekah.,.20 years, ..Bad.,.Was invaded by Assyria, was assassinated by Hoshea 19, Hoshea.,.9years.,.Bad,..The fall of the North came during his reign

QUIZ OVER "THE KINGS OF ISRAEL"

1, Say the 19 rulers in order. 2. How many were bad? 3, Who was the worst? 4. J reigned 41 years, J reigned 28 years, B reigned 24 years, J and A reigned 22 years, and P reigned 20 years, 5. z reigned only 7 days, S reigned only 1 month, and Z reigned only 6 months.

6. Baasha assassinated , Zimri Assassinated , Jehu killed Y Shallum assassinated , Menahem assassinated , Pekah assassinated , and Hoshea assassinated 7. set up the golden calves. 8. moved the capital to Samaria. 9. destroyed Baalism and the house of &ab. 10. reigned in the days of Amos. 1 1, The fall of the North came during Is reign. 96 DIVIDEDKINGDOM HISTORY

ASSIGNMENT I1

Study the following material in preparation for quizzes at their ends. INFORMATION ABOUT THE KINGS OF ISRAEL

EROBOAM 0 1st king of the North 0 Was formerly a servant of Solomon 0 Fled to Egypt to escape Solomon 0 Returned after Solomon's death to lead the people's appeal to Rehoboam m Set up calf-worship at Dan and Bethel 0 Reacted against the young prophet's rebuke 0 Sought the prophet Ahijah's counsel concerning his sick son 0 Had constant hostilities with Rehoboam 0 Ruled 22 years

NADAB 0 2nd king of the North 0 Son of Jeroboam 0 Began in the 2nd year of Asa of the South 0 Had hostilities with Asa 0 Ruled 2 years

BAASHA 0 3rd king of the North 0 Assassinated Nadab, ending the Jeroboam dynasty 0 Began in the 3rd year of Asa of the South 0 Had hostilities with Asa 0 Ruled 24 years

ELAH 0 4th king of the North 0 Son of Baasha 0 Began in the 26th year of Asa of the South 0 Was assassinated while drunk by Zimri 0 Ruled 2 years

ZIMRI 0 Assassinated Elah, ending Baasha dynasty 0 Began in the 27th year of Asa of the South 0 Burned the palace down over himself rather than surrender to Omri 0 Ruled only 7 days

OMlU 0 6th king of the North 0 Defeated Zimri and outlasted Tibni to become king 0 Began in the 27th year of Asa of the South DIVIDED KINGDOMHISTORY 97

0 The most wicked king up to his time 9 Bought Shemer's hill and made it the new capital (Samaria) 0 Ruled 12 years

MAE3 0 7th king of the North 0 Son of Omri 9 Began in the 38th year of Asa of the South 0 The most wicked of all the kings 0 Married Jezebel, the Baal-worshiper 0 Was plagued with 3 years of drought 0 His prophets lost contest with Elijah on Mt. Carmel Took Naboth's vineyard 0 Had several battles with Syria 0 Hated the prophets Elijah and Micaiah 0 Was killed by a divinely directed arrow 0 Ruled 22 years

AHAZIAH 8th king of the North Son of Ahab Began in the 17th year of Jehoshaphat of the South God destroyed his and Jehoshaphat's ships Sent 3 bands of soldiers to take Elijah Died from a fall through lattice for inquiring of Baalzebub Ruled 2 years

JEHORAM 0 9th king of the North 0 Son of Ahab 0 Also called Joram 0 Began in the 18th year of Jehoshaphat of the South 0 Put down a Moabite revolt with the help of Jehoshaphat and the king of Edom 0 Elisha delivered the Syrian army into his hand 0 Was king when Naaman was cured 0 Was king when ElYah prophesied incredible plenty during a Syrian siege 0 Was wounded in a battle with Syria 0 Was killed by Jehu 0 Reigned 12 years

JEHU 10th king of the North Became king by killing Jehoram, ending the Omri dynasty Also killed Ahaziah, king of the South Began in the 1st year of Athaliah of the South Killed Jezebel Wiped out the house of Ahab and Baal-worshipers Received special promise for his dynasty for destroying Baal-worship 98 DIVIDED KINGDOMHISTORY

0 Lost land east of the Jordan to Syria 0 Ruled 28 Years

JEHOAHAZ 0 1lth king of the North 0 Son of Jehu 0 Began in the 23rd year of Joash of the South 0 Was defeated by both Hazael and Ben-hadad of Syria 0 For his seeking Jehovah the North was spared complete destruction 0 Ruled 17 years

JEHOASH 0 12th king of the North 0 Son of Jehoahaz 0 Also called Joash 0 Began in the 37th year of Joash of the South 0 Visited the dying Elisha 0 Elisha told him he would smite Syria 3 times but not destroy it 0 Was king when a dead soldier cast into Elisha's sepulchre arose 0 Defeated Amaziah who dared him to fight 0 Ruled 17 years

JEROBOAM I1 0 13th king of the North 0 Son of Jehoash 0 Began in the 15th year of Amaziah of the South 0 Recovered the country east of the Jordan from Syria according to Jonah's prophecy 0 Was king when Amos predicted the ultimate downfall of the Northern Kingdom 0 Ruled 41 years

ZACHARIAH 0 14th king of the North 0 Son of Jeroboam I1 0 Began in the 38th year of Uzziah of the South 0 Was 5th and last king of the Jehu dynasty 0 Was assassinated by Shallum

SHALLUM 0 15th king of the North 0 Began in the 39th year of Uzziah of the South 0 Was assassinated by Menahem 0 Ruled only 1 month

MENAHEM 0 16th king of the North 0 Began in the 39th year of Uzziah of the South 0 Was king during Assyria's 1st invasion (predicted by Amos's vision of the locusts) 0 Ruled 10 years DIVIDEPKINGDOM HISTORY 99

PEIWIAH 0 7th king of the North 0 Son of Menahem 0 Began in the 50th year of Uzziah of the South 0 Was assassinated by his captain Pekah 0 Ruled 2 years

PEW 0 18th king of the North 0 Began in the 52nd year of Uzziah ofthe South 0 Defeated Judah in Ahaz's reign 0 Obeyed God's order to return the war-captives to Judah 0 Was king during Assyria's 2nd invasion (predicted by Amos's vision of fire) 0 Was assassinated by Hoshea 0 Ruled 20 years

HOSHEA 0 19th king of the North 0 Began in the 20th year of Jotham of the South 0 At first submitted to Assyria 0 Was king during Assyria's 3rd invasion (predicted by Amos's vision of the plumbline) that brought the final end to the Northern Kingdom

QUIZ OVER "INFORMATION ABOUT THE KINGS OF ISRAEL"

1 I, To what country did Jeroboam flee from Solomon? 2. At what 2 cities did Jeroboam set up golden calves? 3, Who took Naboth's vineyard? 4. What 2 prophets did Ahab hate? 5, What prophet delivered the Syrian army into Ahab's hand? 6. Who killed the kings of both North and South? 7. How many times did Joash defeat Syria? 8, Who was ruling during Assyria's 1st invasion? 9. Who was ruling during Assyria's 2nd invasion? 10, Who was ruling during Assyria's 3rd invasion? INFORMATION ABOUT THE KINGS OF JUDAH

REHOBOAM 1st king of the South Son of Solomon Solomon's kingdom divided at Rehoboam's coronation Walked with God his first 3 years Became idolatrous Shishak carried his treasures to Egypt Had 18 wives, 60 concubines, 28 sons, and 60 daughters Ruled 17 years 100 DIVIDEDKINGDOM HISTORY

ABIJAH 0 2nd king of the South 0 Son of Rehoboam 0 Also called Abijam 0 Began in the 18th year of Jeroboam of the North 0 Defeated Jeroboam 0 Had 14 wives, 22 sons, and 16 daughters 0 Ruled 3 years

ASA 0 3rd king of the South 0 Son of Abijah 0 Began in the 20th year of Jeroboam of the North 0 Conducted religious reforms 0 Built and prospered through 10 years of peace 0 Defeated a million Ethiopians 0 God encouraged him with special promises 0 Stopped Baasha from fortifying Ramah 0 Was rebuked for hiring Syrian help 0 Was diseased in his feet his last 2 years 0 Ruled 41 years

JEHOSHAPHAT 0 4th king of the South 0 Son of Asa 0 Began in the 4th year of Ahab of the North 0 Conducted religious reforms 0 Had God's law taught throughout his kingdom 0 Philistines and Arabs brought him tribute 0 Made peace with Ahab and Israel 0 Joined Ahab in battle for Ramoth-gilead 0 Appointed judges throughout the land 0 Was victor over Moab, and Amrnon 0 His and Ahaziah's ships were destroyed 0 His son Jehoram ruled with him in his final years a He, Israel, and Edom were victors over Edom 0 Ruled 25 years

JEHORAM e 5th king of the South 0 Son of Jehoshaphat 0 Killed his brothers and some priests 0 Married Athaliah a Edom and Libnah revolted from him 8 God predicted his violent death and other calamities 0 Was defeated by Philistia, Arabia, and Ethiopia 0 His diseased bowels ultimately dropped out 0 Ruled 8 years DIVIDED KINGDOM HISTORY I01

AHAZIAH 6th king of the South Son of Jehoram His mother Athaliah was his counselor Helped Jehoram of the North in battle for Ramoth-gilead Was killed by Jehu while visiting the recovering Jehoram Ruled 1 year

ATHALIAH 7th ruler of the South Daughter of Ahab and Jezebel Destroyed the royal seed and usurped the throne Was killed at the order of the priest Jehoiada Ruled 6 years

JOASH 0 8th king of the South 0 Son of Ahaziah 0 Was secretly rescued from Athaliah and reared by the priest Jehoiada and his wife 0 Jehoiada led in his coronation and influenced his reign 0 Conducted religious reforms 0 Departed from God aRer Jehoiada's death 0 Was defeated by Syria 0 Bought off Syria 0 Was killed by his servants 0 Ruled 40 years

AMAZIAH 9th king of the South Son of Joash Killed his father's assassins God told him not to hire Israelite soldiers for war with Edom Defeated Edom Began worshiping some of Edom's idols Challenged Jehoash of the North and lost Was killed by his servants Ruled 29 years

UZZIAH 10th king of the South Son of Amaziah Served Jehovah Regained Elath Defeated Philistia, Arabia, and Ammon Built military machines Built, planted, and had much cattle Was known all over the world Became leprous over burning incense in the temple 102 DIVIDEDKINGDOM HISTORY e Jotham reigned for him afterwards e Ruled 52 years

JOTHAM e 1lth king of the South e Son of Uzziah e Subdued Ammon e Fought with Israel and Syria e Ruled 16 years

AHA2 e 12th king of the South e Son of Jotham e The worst king Judah had had for some time e Lost Elath to Syria e Was defeated by Edom and Philistia e Hired Assyria against Israel and Syria 0 Became tributary to Assyria e Built an altar like one he saw at Damascus e Ruled 16 years

HEZEKIAH e 13th king of the South e Son of Ahaz 0 Conducted religious reforms 0 Invited the North to a great Passover e Conducted even greater reforms 0 Defeated Philistia 0 Brought the water of Gihon Spring into the city by tunnel e Was healed and promised 15 more years of life e Was delivered from Sennacherib e Showed his treasures to Babylonian visitors e Isaiah prophesied in his days e Ruled 29 years

MANASSEH e 14th king of the South e Son of Hezekiah e The worst king of Judah e Shed much innocent blood e Was taken captive to Babylon e Repented and was returned to his throne in Jerusalem e Conducted religious reforms e Ruled 52 years

AMON e 15th king of the South e Son of Manasseh DIVIDED KINGDOM HISTORY 103

0 Revived idol worsip 0 Was killed by his servants 0 Ruled 2 years

JOSIAH 0 16th king of the South 0 Son of Amon 0 One of Judah' s best kings 0 Conducted religious reforms 0 The book of the law was found amid temple rubble 0 Destroyed the Bethel altar and burned priests' bones on it 0 Held the greatest passover since Samuel 0 Was Judah's last good king 0 Was killed by Pharoah-Necho 0 Jeremiah conducted a national lamentation for him 0 Ruled 31 years

JEHOAHAZ 17th king of the South Son of Josiah Was deposed by Pharaoh-Necho Ruled 3 months Died a captive in Egypt

JEHOIAKIM 18th king of the South Son of Josiah Was tributary to Egypt Burned some of Jeremiah's writings ' Went to Babylon in the 1st captivity Ruled 11 years Died a captive in Babylon

JEHOIACHTN 19th king of the South Son of Jehoiakim Fell to Babylon in the 2nd Captivity Ruled 3 months and 10 days Was captive in Babylon for 37 years before being freed

ZEDEKIAH 20th and last king of the South Son of Jehoiakim Ofcen consulted Jeremiah but did not obey his counsel Judah's end came under him Babylon killed his sons before his eyes, put out his own eyes, and he was taken to Babylon. 104 DIVIDEDKINGDOM HISTORY QUIZ OVER "INFORMATION ABOUT THE KINGS OF JUDAH"

1. How many years did Rehoboam walk with God? 2. Who carried Rehoboam's treasures to Egypt? 3. Rehoboam had wives, -concubines, -sons, and daughters, 4. Abijah defeated 5. Abijah had -wives, sons, and -daughters. 6. How many Ethiopians did Asa defeat? 7. Asa stopped from fortifying Ramah. 8. In Asa's latter years, where was he diseased? 9. With what wicked king of the North did Jehoshaphat make peace? 10. Who killed his brothers when he became the king? 11. How did Jehoram die? 12. When was Ahaziah killed? 13. Who usurped the throne of Judah? 14. Who ordered her killed? 15, Who reared Joash? 16. Who worshiped some of Edom's idols after defeating Edom? 17. Who became leprous? 18. Who built an altar like one he saw at Damascus? 19. Who brought the water of Gihon Spring into Jerusalem by a tunnel? 20. How many more years of life was Hezekiah promised? 2 1. Where was the book of the law found? 22. On what altar did Josiah burn priests' bones? 23. Who killed Josiah? 24. Who conducted a national lamentation for Josiah? 25. Who died a captive in Egypt? 26. Who burned some of Jeremiah's writings? 27. Who was a captive in Babylon for 37 years? 28. What prophet did Zedekiah frequently consult? 29. Tell 2 of the 3 hardships Babylon brought on Zedekiah. Index British Museum 79 Hezekiali 11,25,62,74-76,78-84, 86, Abednego 88 Brook Kidion 28 88,90, 94, 102, 104 Abel-Betlxnaachah 73 Carcheiiiish 86, 88 Hie1 25,26 Abijah 11, 17-20,22,76,94, 100, 104 Chemosli 42,44 Hoshea 10-12,74,76,95,99 Abraham 9,28,41,45,52,67,77 Damascus 29,31,33,48,50,52,53, Ibleani 5 6, 5 8 Adoraim 18 63,73,74, 102, 104 Isaac 28,41,52,67 Adoram 10 Dan 8, 12, 14, 15,20,48,60,64,68, Isaiah 72,73,79-83, 102 Ahab 10,24-36,39,42,43,51,5446, 70,75,76,89,96 Ishmael 6 1 58*60,62,70,73,82,89,95,97, David -5--7,9, 14-18,20,21,25,31, Israel -5-, 7-12, 15, 16, 18.32,34-37, 99-101 32,53,54,56,61,62,65,72-77, 39,40,42-45,47-5 1,53-56, Ahaz 11,72-74,76, 84,94, 102 84-87 58-60,63,64,66-77,82-86,91, Ahaziah 10, 11,24,33,36,38,39, Dead Sea 7,37,38,42,43,68 94-96,99, 100, 102 42-44,53-56,58-60,94,95,97, Dibon 24 Istanbul 80 101,104 Ecclesiastes 8 Janoah 73 Ahijah 9, 14, 17 Edom 37,38,43,44,54,67,68,94,97, Jeconiah 89 Aij alon 18 100-102, 104 Jehoahaz 10, 11,54,60,63,64,66-68, Amariah 36,37 Egypt 7,9, 14, 18, 19,22,29,37,52, 70, 86, 87,94,95,98, 103 Amaziali 11,35,62,65-69,94,98, 101 58,76, 81,87,90,94,96,99, 103, Jehoiacliin 11, 12, 86, 88,94, 103 Ammon 37,72,100-102 104 Jehoiada 60-65,94, 101 Ammonites 37,72 Ekron 23,38,39,80 Jelioram 10, 11,24,25,33,39,42,43, Amos 10, 11,35,36,53,63,65,68,71, Elah 10,22-25,58,95,96 51-56,58-61,67,94,95,97, 100, 73,76,77,95,98 Elath 69,73, 101, 102 101, 104 Anglo-Israel theory 76 Eliakim 87 Jelioshaphat 11,25,26,33-38,42,43, Aphek 3 1,66 Eliezer 38 53-56,94,97, 100, 104 Arabia 54, 100, 101 Elijah 22,26-30,32-35,38-43,45,46, Jehosheba 60,61 Argob 72 52,54,55,58-60,66,95,97 Jehozabad 65 Arieh 72 Elisha 29,30,39-53,55,59,63,66,67, Jehu 10, 11,21,23,24,33,36,39,53, Arza 23 95,97,98 55,56,58-61,63,70,94,95,97, Asa 11,20-26,33,54,94,96,97, 100, Elishaphat 6 1 98,101 104 Engedi 37 Jeremiah 74, 86-92, 103 Ashkelon 80 Essarhaddon 83 Jericho 20,25,26,40-42,47,52,92 Athaliah 11,24,25,33,54,55, 60-63, Ethiopian 2 1,91 Jeroboam -5-,9-11, 14-21,23-25,33, 65,94,97, 100, 101 Euphrates 7 35,55,60,63,68-71,75,76, 85, Azariah 21,22,54,61,69,71 Ezion-geber 7,8,33 94-96,98-100 Azekah 18 Galilee 3 1, 54,73 Jeroboam I1 10,60,68-70,95,98 Baal 22,25-29,34,36,39, 59.63, 70, Gath 18 Jerusalem 7-12, 14, 18, 19,21,22,24, 73,82,97 Gehazi 30,45-49,5 1,52 34-37,53-56,61,64,65,68,69, Baalism 25-27,55,59,61,62,95 Gershon 76 72-75,79-92,94, 102, 104 Baalzebub 38,39,97 Gezer 23,25 Jezebel24-29,32,33,35,36,39,41, Baasha 10, 11, 17,20-25,33,36,55, Gibbethon 2 1,23 54-56,58-62,73, 82,95,97, 101 94-96, 100 Gibeon 7, 89 Jezreel27-29,3 1-33,35,54-56,58,60, Baruch 87,88 Gilion Spring 7, 80, 102, 104 61 Bathsheba 32 Gilgal39,41,46,47 Joash 10, 11,60-67, 85,94,98,99, Bay of Acre 28 Glueck 7 101,104 Beersheba 8,29,36 Goliath 3 1 John the Baptist 27,4 1 Benjamin 10, 12, 18, 85 Gur 56 Joiiadab 59 Ben-hadad 22,23,30-32,34,35,63, Hadad 9,22,23,30-32,34,35,63,64, Joppa 38 64,67,98 67,98 Jordan Valley 7,29 Bethel 14-16, 19,20,25,39-42,60,64, Hanani 22,35,36,53 Josephus 61,66,83,88 68,85,86,96, 103 Hanaiiiah 35,89 Joshua 9,11,25,30,34,62,83 Bethlehem 18 Hazael52-55,59,63-65,67,95,98 Josiah 11, 15,78,82, 84-87,90,94, Black Obelisk 24 Hazor 73 103,104 British-Israel 76 Hebron 18 Jotliam 11,70-73,94,99, 102 Judah -5-, 8, 10-12, 14-16, 18-26,29, Nadab 10,20,21,24,25,94,96 Shallum 11,70,71, 87, 95, 98 33,37,38,43,44,53,54,56, Nathan 75 Shalmaneser 24,74,76 59-61,63-65,67-76,79-92,94, Nebuchadnezzar 70,83,84,88-90,92 Sheba 8 99,102,104 Nineveh 11,68,79, 82,86 Shechem 9,10,12 Kedesh 73 Nisroch 82 Shemaiah 10,18,89 Kenites 59 Obadiah 27-29 Shoco 18 Kidron Valley 7, 80 Omri 10, 11,23-25,35,39,42,55,57, Shunammite 45,5 1,52 Kohath 76 59,95-97 Siloam 80 Lachish 18, 69, 79,82 Ophir 7, 8,38 Solomon -5--10, 17, 18,20,37,38,40, Levi 14,76 Palestine 16, 19,76,77,89 75,85, 86, 89,96,99 Levites 14, 19,26,34,36,37,63,75, Passover 7, 14,41,75,86, 102, 103 Song of Solomon 8 76,85 Pekahiah 11,71,72,95,99 Spain 38 Libnah 54,79, 81, 82, 100 Peniel 10 Syria 22,30, 3 1,33-36,47,48,50,52, Lot 76 Pentecost 7, 14,59 53,55,59,63-67,72-74,94,95, Maaseiah 61, 85 Penuel 10,12 97-99,101,102 Manasseh 11, 12,63,82-85,94, 102 Petra 67 Tabernacle 7,29 Mareshah 18 Pharaoh-Necho 86-88,103 Tarshish 7,8,38 Maritime plain 23,28,47 Pharaoh 18,34, 86-88, 103 Terah 37 Mary 79 Philistines 21,23,38,69,73,74,76, Tibni 23,24,96 Mattan 61 100 Tiglath-pileser 73,74 Mattaniah 89 Philistine Plain 22 Tiphsah 70 Matthew 30 Phoenicia 7,25,27 Tirzah 10, 12,22,23 Medes 76 Pool of Siloam 80 Tishbeh 26,28,40 Mediterranean Sea 28 Proverbs 8 Tishbite 38,40, 58 Megiddo 25,56,86 Pul71,73 Tyre 80 Menahem 11,12,70,71,73,95,98,99 Rabshakeh 8 1, 82 Uriah 32 Merari 76 Ramah 22,91,92,100,104 Urijah 88 Mesha 42-44 Ramoth-gilead 33-35, 100, 101 Uzziah 11,69-72,94,98,99, 101, 102 Meshach 88 Red Sea 8,37,38,69,73 Valley of Jezreel3 1 Micah 24,88 Rehoboam -5,9-1 1, 14, 17-20,75,94, Valley of Salt 67 Micaiah 33-35,95,97 96,99,100,104 Zabad 65 Moab 24,33,36-38,42-45,51, 100 Rezin 72-74 Zachariah 69,95,98 Moabite Stone 24,42 Riblah 87,92 Zadok 7 Moloch 73,83 Samaria 10, 12, 16,24,25,30,32,34, Zarephath 27,29,45,46 Moses 7,9, 18,21,27,29,30,34,37, 35,38,42,45,48-52,56,59,60, Zebadiah 36,37 41, 51,61,66,70,74,77,79, 80 63,68,72,76,77,79,95,97 Zechariah 10,60,64,65,69,70 Mt. Carmel27-29,32,34,39,42,45, Samaritan people 77 Zedekiah 1I, 12,34,35,86,89-92,94, 60,97 Sargon 76,79 103,104 Mt. Ephraim 36 Saul -5,7, 17,30,53,83 Zimri 10, 11,23-25,58,95,96 Mt. Sinai 7,29,41,55 Sea of Galilee 3 1 Ziph 18 Mt. Zemaraim 19 Sennacherib 79-82, 102 Zorah 18 Naaman 45,47-49,52,53,97 Shadrach 88 Naboth 32,33,35,5 1 Notes